The Conservative-controlled Thanet District Council is seeking to ban foster homes in Cliftonville West as a ‘solution’ to problems caused by the Government’s austerity programme. For my July column in Isle of Thanet News, I chose to highlight the plight of children in care. These are some of the most vulnerable people in our community, and we must make sure that systems are in place to protect them. The article concludes:
“Keeping young people safe and supported must be our top priority. The reality is that the under-funding of social services, education and policing is having a direct impact on children’s safety.
What is badly needed is more support from central government for looked-after children, their families and carers. Thanet should demand additional resources to become a centre of excellence for care services and a place of refuge for some of the most vulnerable children in society.”
