Lincolnshire is getting lots of children’s homes applications with applications in Grantham, Lincoln, Spalding and Stamford
Vulnerable children will be able to grow up in peaceful Lincolnshire thanks to our cheap house prices, say county bosses.
Lincolnshire County Council states that there is a national shortage of places in children’s homes for vulnerable youngsters and the less expensive property market could be the reason why national providers are being attracted to the area.
Several change of use planning applications have been submitted for properties in the Grantham, Lincoln, Spalding and Stamford areas over the last year in order to help meet the need.
Tara Jones, assistant director for children’s safeguarding, said: “The Department for Education (DfE) has recognised that there is a shortage of places in children’s homes across the country and is addressing this as part of its wider reforms within the sector.
“The aim is to ensure there are appropriate places for the vulnerable children and young people who need this support. As housing in Lincolnshire is often less expensive than other parts of the country, it could be that this has attracted private providers to the area, which could explain any increase in applications for new homes.
“Any new places could be used by local children, but are often used for those from other parts of the country, with any decisions based on the young person’s specific circumstances.”
What do you think? Let us know your views in the comments below…