This annual release contains statistics on children in need in England, including child protection plans, and referrals to and assessments completed by children’s social care services. Each reporting year covers the financial year, 1 April to 31 March.

Children in Need are a legally defined group of children (under the Children Act 1989), assessed as needing help and protection as a result of risks to their development or health. This group includes children on child in need plans, children on child protection plans, children looked after by local authorities, care leavers and disabled children.

Children in need include young people aged 18 or over who continue to receive care, accommodation or support from children’s services, and unborn children.

Whilst the title of the release has changed from Characteristics of children in need to Children in need, the statistics and content published remain the same.