Looked-after children
Children in the care of a local authority, including those in foster care, residential homes, or placed with relatives under a court order.
In plain English
Children in the care of a local authority, including those in foster care, residential homes, or placed with relatives under a court order.
Why it matters
Looked-after children face higher risks of exploitation, mental-ill health, and educational disruption. They have a virtual school head and a designated teacher to support their education, and dedicated safeguarding arrangements. Online safety planning for them needs extra care.
What to do
Schools and settings
Use the designated teacher role to coordinate online safety, mental-health support, and personal education plans for every looked-after pupil.
Sources
- Looked-after children— GOV.UK
This is practical educational content to support families. For case-specific concerns about a child's safety, contact the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 or your local safeguarding team.
Last reviewed: 2026-05-17