The Challenges Facing Young Mothers and Care Proceedings: A Call for Support
A new study highlights that mothers under 20 are at the highest risk of being involved in care proceedings within 10 years of giving birth. Led by UCL researchers and funded by the Nuffield Foundation, the research analysed data from 3.5 million first-time mothers in England between 2007 and 2021.
The findings reveal that 1 in 15 young mothers under 20 years old experience care proceedings within a decade of giving birth, a stark contrast to 1 in 77 of all first-time mothers. Moreover, young mothers from economically disadvantaged backgrounds or those with pre-existing health issues, particularly mental health conditions, substance use, or intellectual disabilities, face even greater risks.
The statistics paint a clear picture: Nearly 80% of first-time mothers involved in care proceedings are under the age of 25, showing that younger mothers require extensive support. With around 10,000 families in England involved in care proceedings each year and an increase in children placed into care by over 20% in the past decade, there's a pressing need for prevention strategies to provide support both emotionally and financially.
The study also shows that 34% of mothers involved in care proceedings go through a second care proceeding, often after a new pregnancy. Providing ongoing support after the first care proceeding is essential, as these mothers are seven times more likely to die than their peers.
Addressing these challenges could help break the cycle of repeat removals and improve long-term outcomes for both mothers and children. Early intervention strategies, including access to mental health services and financial support, could significantly reduce the need for family court involvement.
This research reinforces the importance of targeted support for young, vulnerable mothers in West Lancashire and beyond. With the right care, many of these proceedings could be avoided, helping to keep families together and secure better futures for vulnerable children.
This new insight calls for continued action and support from community services to offer young mothers the resources they need to thrive as parents.