Looked after children and young people are individuals.
They come from all walks of life and have different aspirations, ambitions and identities.
What they share in common is that usually they do not live with their parents, who are unable to offer safe or effective caring within the family home without assistance.
Some of these children will have experienced damaging and abusive experiences, such as neglect, physical or sexual abuse or there may have been a breakdown in family relationships. For some, their needs are so special they need to attend a residential home or school.
Children and young people are looked after in different settings depending on their needs. Most often this will be in the family home of foster carers but children may also live in residential schools or units - especially if they have special needs.
The children may spend a short time in the council's care before returning to their family or joining another family, for example through adoption. For others, their stay is for many years, lasting until adulthood.
