More than 500 child protection investigations were started every single day on average last year by councils concerned about children at risk of harm, the Local Government Association reveals today.

Liberal Democrat Education spokesperson Layla Moran MP commented:

“While many of us are anticipating a happy family time at Christmas, it is as sobering as it is scandalous that there are such a vast number of child investigation cases conducted every single day.

“It is not all about money, but it is surely no coincidence that rising levels of child investigations coincide with rising levels of child poverty, as shown by a recent report from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation showing that 400,000 more young people are living below the bread line.

“With the debacle over tax credits and cuts to children centres, this horrific situation is only going to grow worse, particularly when by 2020 children’s services departments will be facing a funding gap of £2 billion.

“A personal tragedy for each family has become a national disgrace.”