Charities warn of a ‘looming crisis’ for foster care system

year before, and the second consecutive annual increase.

Figures show one in every 92childreninSunderlandare lookedafter,comparedtoone in 154 across England.

There were 78,000 children looked after by local authorities in England – a rise of 4% on 2017-18.

The vast majority go into fostercarewiththeIndependent Foster Carers Alliance warning the sector faces a “looming crisis” as the coronavirusbeginstoplaceastrain on foster families.

Charity director Jane Collins fears reduced support for families will mean even more childrenneedingnewhomes, while school closures have added to the strain on foster families caring for children with disabilities.

She said: "The current unprecedented crisis is placing a massive strain on foster carers.

"Foster carers with children who have complex medical needs and disabilities are already at breaking point withoutrespiteprovisionand school to give them needed time to recharge their batteries.”

The coronavirus outbreak could also further the anxiety of children in care, causing “very challenging behaviour” and the breakdown of many placements, she added.

Anne Longfield, the Children'sCommissionerforEngland,

said: “Whilst it is hard, and unwise to predict at this stage, it would also be unwise to rule out the possibility that the number of vulnerable children needing care won’t increase, and add strain on a system whose staff are facing the exact same health threat we all are.”

A Department for Education spokeswoman said schools are remaining open to children in foster care.

She said: “Foster carers playavitalrole.Weareurgently addressing the challenges that they face during these uncertain times and working to get more emergency foster carers approved swiftly.”