BASW Statement on the closure of Children England

It is with sadness that the British Association of Social Workers (BASW) acknowledges the closure of Children England, a vital collective for children's charities. This development highlights the alarming consequences of government policy on austerity, which has taken a heavy toll on children, young people, and the organisations dedicated to supporting them.

Launched as the National Council of Voluntary Child Care Organisations (NCVCCO), in 1942, Children England served as a powerful advocate for the rights and well-being of children and young people across the nation. Through its tireless efforts, Children England championed the rights of the most vulnerable in our society and played a pivotal role in shaping policies and services that aimed to improve their lives.

Today, as we face the regrettable closure of Children England, we must reflect on the wider context that has led to this outcome. Government policies, driven by austerity measures, have consistently underfunded and undermined the very services and organisations that are essential for the welfare of our children and young people. The consequences of this short-sighted approach have been far-reaching and deeply concerning.

Children and young people have been disproportionately affected by austerity, with cuts to vital services such as education, healthcare, and social care. Vulnerable families have found themselves increasingly marginalised, facing barriers to accessing essential support. The closure of Children England serves as a stark reminder that when we fail to prioritise the well-being of our children, we compromise the future of our society.

BASW firmly condemns the government's continued pursuit of austerity policies that have had a detrimental impact on children, young people, and the organisations working tirelessly to support them. We call upon policymakers to recognise the urgency of investing in the well-being and future prospects of our youth. It is imperative that we prioritise the safeguarding and nurturing of our children and young people, ensuring they have access to the resources and support they need to thrive.

As we bid farewell to Children England, we express our gratitude for their invaluable contributions to the field of child welfare and advocacy. Their legacy will live on through the continued dedication of organisations and individuals who are committed to fighting for the rights and well-being of our nation's children.

BASW remains resolute in its commitment to advocating for policies that prioritise the welfare of children and young people, and we will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that their voices are heard and their needs are met. Together, we can build a brighter and more equitable future for all children and young people in the United Kingdom.