We find ourselves in unprecedented times. Many of us have questions that cannot be answered as we have simply never experienced a situation like this in our lifetimes. It seems that the situation surrounding COVID-19 also referred to as Coronavirus, has accelerated at a rate that we could not foresee and we now find ourselves as advised by the Government to stay home where possible.

As of Monday 23 March, CAFCASS closed down all their offices to the public and the majority of staff are now working remotely.

Today (18 March) is stop child sexual exploitation awareness day- #saysomething.

The government has written to directors of children’s services across England urging them to prioritise adoption for children in the care system and to ensure that prospective adopters are not turned away when they are actually eligible.

Figures from West Yorkshire Police have shown an increase in child sexual grooming cases of nearly 60 per cent. Significantly, the figures indicated a record number of children being targeted on the social media platform, Instagram.

Care Partner, Joanne Coen discusses a recent report in which Anne Longfield highlights the thousands of children living within a homeless household.

Joanne Coen from the care team discusses the rising demand in the Care System for children aged 13 and over.

Abuse Partner Natalie Marrison discusses a recent report, in which the Joint Committee on Human Rights said cuts to Legal Aid have left them with “grave concerns for access to justice”.