Children in care, separated from their siblings, can have lifelong repercussions, damaging those relationships in ways that could sometimes never be repaired. This report by the Children’s Commissioner looks at the importance of sibling relationships and the number of children in care who are separated from their siblings.
Three main reasons why children in care are separated from their siblings:
• the lack of sufficient places for sibling groups
• decision making and planning which is inconsistent and doesn’t sufficiently consider the needs and views of children
• separation which is in the best interests of children
This analysis estimates 37% of children in care (20,000) were separated from their siblings in their initial placement. An estimated 34% of sibling groups (8,000) were separated in their initial placement. Of the 8,000 sibling groups who were separated in their initial placement, 59% were in the same local authority, 39% were split between 2 local authorities and 2% were split between 3 or 4 different local authorities.
Children placed in semi-independent accommodation or children’s homes are much more likely to be separated from their siblings (93% and 78%) than children placed in foster care with a relative or friend (30%).
Children placed in care under an emergency care order were more likely to be separated from siblings (39%) than those placed in care because of care orders (38%), voluntary agreement (36%) or Under Police Protection or under Child Assessment Order (34%).