Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 5:29 pm on 26 November 2019.
Wales, of course, has the highest number of looked-after children on record. There were 6,845 children as of 31 March this year, a 65 per cent increase since 2003. The change has been even more extreme in some particular local authorities such as Anglesey, seeing a 190 per cent increase, Torfaen 195 per cent, and Monmouthshire 250 per cent. Moreover, Cardiff had 380 more looked-after children to care for this year, highlighting what continues to be a worrying trend in our communities. So, it comes as no surprise, therefore, Deputy Minister, that I certainly thank you for the report and the opportunity for us to debate this.