Figures Reveal One in Six Looked After Children in Bedford Borough Move at Least Three Times a Year

5.06.14pm BST (GMT +0100) Thu 10th Sep 2009

Latest figures from Bedford Borough Council have revealed that one in six looked after children move three or more times a year. The figures show that the number of children moving repeatedly within one year is almost five per cent above the national average, and four per cent over the Council's own target. Bedford Borough Liberal Democrats are calling for the issue to be addressed as a matter of urgency and have requested a full report to the next Children's Services Committee meeting.

Commenting, Bedford Borough Liberal Democrat Children's Services Spokesperson Cllr Michael Headley said: "There has often already been instability in the lives of looked after children without repeated moves from one home to the next. Of course, there can be factors in individual cases which mean a move is a beneficial thing for a child, for example moving from a temporary to a permanent home, or being re-united with family. However, the sheer number of children moving at least three times within one year is of real concern.'

"The underlying causes of repeated moves must be investigated as a matter of urgency. The Council must do all it can to ensure that looked-after children are able to grow up in the best possible environment.'