What does ‘looked after’ mean?

The term ‘looked after’ was introduced by the Children’s Act in 1989 and refers to children who are subject to care orders and those who are accommodated.    Many children and young people who become looked after retain strong links with their families and many eventually return home.

Wherever possible, Sutton will work in partnership with parents.

Who looks after these children and young people?

Most young people are cared for by Foster Carers in Sutton. Some children move out of the area, which means that they can be at a distance from their families and friends.  A minority of children live in Children’s Homes located close to Sutton and a few live in specialist children’s homes in areas outside the borough.  Sometimes extended family members will look after children, which is often a preferable arrangement as they are not then placed with strangers. 

For further information – please see the links below

Link to:

• Looked After Children Education Support (LACES) – The Team ( PDF - 14k)
• External Documents & Useful Links
• Agencies working together
• What is a PEP? (Personal Education Plan)
• Placement Information Record
• Care Plan
• Sutton’s Achievement