When children are unable to live with their own families (and there are many reasons why this happens), we have a duty under the Children Act 1989 to 'look after' them and provide accommodation for them. Every child who is looked after has a social worker. The social worker is responsible for assessing the child's and family's situation and drawing up a plan of care. The plan of care will set out why the child is being looked after, for how long, and who needs to do what to make sure that the plan is carried out effectively.

When children can't live with their families they will usually live with foster carers, or in a children's home. York has many approved foster placements which are all different and are tailored to meet the needs of individual children of all ages.

York has two children's homes each looking after up to 6 young people aged 13 and over.

Support for disabled children and their families

We provide a range of services for children who have physical and learning disabilities or complex health needs. Children's needs are assessed by specialist social workers, and from this care and support packages are agreed. The Glen provides short break residential care for disabled children of all ages. Sharing Care offers planned short breaks to disabled children in the homes of specially trained carers and the team can arrange help from other local specialist organisations.

Contact

If you would like to know more about services for children and their families in York, or want to discuss your personal circumstances in confidence, please contact the customer advice centre.