When we refer to looked-after children, we mean those children and young people looked after by the state in a manner described under UK and Wales legislation, whether that be in state institutions or under some form of fostering arrangement. Looked-after children and children living in state care remain, unfortunately, one of the most vulnerable groups in our society. The number of children subject to care proceedings has increased substantially over recent years, and the majority entering care due to alleged parental or family abuse and neglect.

It is an unfortunate fact that, compared to their peers, looked-after children generally have poorer outcomes in relation to education and mental health, as has been mentioned several times earlier, with many experiencing isolation and continued vulnerability whilst in care. Despite some improvement in the care system, many young people still go on to have poor life experiences when leaving state care, which include problems in relation to poverty, lack of suitable accommodation and employment. 

It is therefore vital that the removal of children from a family home should always be the last resort. It is understandable that social workers err on the side of caution, given the condemnation of some decisions made by their colleagues in recent high-profile cases. However, it is also a fact that an over-zealous approach can sometimes act against the best interests of the child, and therefore the family. 

The First Minister in his election address to the post he now occupies realised that too many children are taken from families in Wales. He also alluded to setting targets, a target for each local authority to reduce the number of children from that locality—