William Eichler 19 February 2025

Unions brand reunification service closure ‘callous’

Unions brand reunification service closure ‘callous’ image
Image: fizkes / Shutterstock.com.

Cambridgeshire County Council’s decision to close down a service helping children in care would harm vulnerable children and cost the local authority more money, unions warn.

Council members last week voted to shut down the reunification and placement stability service (RAPSS), which helps children in care return to their families.

UNISON and Unite argue that the cost of the service – £250,000 per year – can ‘easily’ be covered because it reduces the need for high-cost placements, which cost £10,000 a week.

The council also voted to reduce funding to its domestic abuse and violence service.

In total, 22 jobs could be at risk across both services, according to UNISON and Unite.

UNISON Cambridgeshire County branch secretary Rob Turner said the decision was ‘callous and counter-productive.’

Unite regional officer Rosie Newbigging added: ‘The threatened closure of the reunification service would be a very cruel cut. It makes no economic sense.’

Commenting on RAPSS, a Cambridgeshire County Council spokesperson said the council would be continuing with reunification and is just changing how it is delivered.

They also added: 'The Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence service has worked with partners to ensure that medium risk domestic abuse victims continue to have access to support. It’s vital we’re clear here – help for victims of domestic abuse will still be available to those who need it.'

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Business Support Officer (Museums & Galleries NPO)

Kirklees Metropolitan Council
£16,765 - £17,607
This is an exciting opportunity to support Kirklees Museums and Galleries in the development of its ambitious vision Kirklees, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: Kirklees Metropolitan Council

Higher Level Teaching Assistant

Durham County Council
£30,024 - £33,699 pro rata
Higher Level Teaching Assistant Grade 7 £30,024 - £33,699 pro rata Full time, term time only + 2 weeks Permanent Required from 3rd November.  We wish Stanley
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Team Leader - Communication and Interaction

Durham County Council
Leadership 6 - 10 £58,569 - £64,691
We are looking for a Team Leader to join our highly valued and well-established Specialist SEND and Inclusion Support (SIS) Service. This is an addit Spennymoor
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Senior Business Analyst

North Yorkshire Council
£47,181 - £51,356 per annum
Do you enjoy analysing problems, identifying opportunities, and delivering practical solutions? Scarborough, North Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council

Senior Business Analyst

North Yorkshire Council
£47,181 - £51,356 per annum
Do you enjoy analysing problems, identifying opportunities, and delivering practical solutions? Selby, North Yorkshire
Recuriter: North Yorkshire Council
Linkedin Banner