Every child deserves a safe, supportive, and loving growing environment. But every day across England, around 1,700 children are referred to social care services — often because of concerns linked to neglect, abuse, mental health or domestic abuse.

Here in Lincolnshire, we received 7,957 referrals in the year to 31 March 2024 — more than 21 every single day. Behind every one of those numbers is a real child, a real family, and a team of professionals working hard to make a difference.

Delivering Outstanding Support in Challenging Times

Despite the rising complexity and need volume, Lincolnshire’s Children’s Services have consistently been recognised as among the very best in the country. We are one of only a few authorities to have been rated Outstanding by Ofsted across the board — a direct reflection of the dedication and professionalism of our social workers, early help teams, educators, health professionals, and foster carers.

From supporting families in the early stages of difficulty to protecting children at risk to finding stable, loving homes for children in care — our teams work tirelessly, often behind the scenes, to ensure every child has the best chance to thrive.

Early Intervention: The Right Help at the Right Time

We know that the earlier we can offer support, the better the outcomes for children and their families — and the lower the long-term cost of public services. That’s why we invest heavily in early help services that prevent problems from escalating.

But to continue doing that effectively and avoid reaching a point where crisis is the only option, we need sustainable, long-term funding.

The Local Government Association (LGA) is right to call for this in the upcoming Spending Review. Without it, councils nationwide may be forced to scale back early intervention and focus solely on crisis response. This false economy ultimately puts more children at risk and increases costs for everyone.

Children’s Services: A Shared Responsibility

It’s important to remember that children’s social care doesn’t work in isolation. Many of the issues that lead to referrals — like mental health, addiction, poverty, or domestic abuse — require a joined-up response across government departments and local services.

That’s why we’re also backing the call for a cross-government strategy for children and families. Every agency needs to work toward the same goals—early help, stronger families, and better outcomes for children.

Proud of Our People, Proud of Our Service

We are incredibly proud of the work done daily across Lincolnshire to protect and support vulnerable children. Our Ofsted Outstanding rating is not just a badge — it’s proof that excellent services are possible with the proper support, vision, and leadership, even in difficult times.

But we cannot do it alone. We need continued investment, shared ambition, and national recognition that children’s services are not an optional extra—they are a lifeline.

So the next time you see a news headline about social care referrals, remember: behind every statistic is a child, and behind every child is a team that cares.