Children's Residential Capacity Questionnaire

Overview

Essex County Council is conducting a piece of work to look at increasing capacity within Essex in order to meet the growing needs of our looked after young people. As stated in the Children Act 1989 accommodation provided by local authorities for looked after children must be “within the local authority’s area” unless this is “not reasonably practicable.” As you are aware, this can be a challenge due to the complexity of the presenting needs and availability of appropriate placements when we refer. In order for us to better understand the challenges please can you complete the following questions. All information is confidential and will not be shared with the wider market.