Fears Kirklees' vulnerable children at risk as social services job posts left empty

Experts warn the nationwide lockdown could pile pressure on an already stretched system, with councils across England reporting high vacancy rates and reliance on expensive agency staff in their child protection operations.

New Department for Education figures show there were 20 full-time equivalent job vacancies in child and family social work in Kirklees in September – seven per cent of a fully-staffed workforce. Temporary agency staff, who can be far more expensive for councils than regular employees, were covering two of these vacancies.

Across England, there were more than 6,000 vacancies, a figure that has increased by four per cent since September 2018.

John McGowan, general secretary of the Social Workers Union, said social workers are already struggling with the effects of the outbreak, with many off sick or in self-isolation, meaning less qualified staff or unqualified assistants could be asked to perform statutory duties. “There could be a real shortfall of qualified staff – it is happening already,” Mr McGowan said.

The Social Workers Union said councils need an urgent cash injection for child services.

The Department for Education says the emergency Coronavirus Act will help social workers continue their “vital role” supporting children and their families through uncertain times.