The number of children with mental health problems being seen by social workers has reached record levels, new analysis has revealed.
The figures, published by the Local Government Association (LGA), found the number of children needing help with mental health issued has increased from 57,410 in 2018 to 87,750 in 2022.
This is an increase of nearly 53% in the last five years.
The LGA found councils spent over £10.5bn on children’s social care in 2020/21, nearly 25% more than the £8.5bn spent in 2016/17.
The LGA is calling on the Government to meet the £1.16bn cost pressure already in the system to stabilise the children’s social care system.
Cllr Louise Gittins, chair of the LGA’s Children and Young People Board, said: 'These alarming figures show the huge challenges facing children’s social care and the urgent need to ensure that young people get the support they need, as soon as they need it.
'Councils are doing all they can but are buckling under significant funding pressures to ensure they can support children and their families.
'This is why it is vital the Autumn Statement delivers a lifeline for children’s services, which risk becoming overwhelmed as the cost-of-living crisis pushes many more households to the brink.'
