Child protection
The child protection scheme takes measures to safeguard vulnerable children and young people at risk or suffering from physical, emotional or sexual abuse.
This involves investigating reports of suspected abuse and where appropriate applying for a Child Assessment Order, Care Order, Supervision Order or Emergency Protection Order.
Hospice care for children
Children's hospices provide respite and terminal care for children suffering from life-limiting conditions in a home-from-home environment. Care is provided for the child and their family at no cost to them for as long as is necessary, including post bereavement support.
Children and young people - residential care
Provision of residential accommodation for children and young people who cannot live with their natural families.
Prior to a placement in residential accommodation there will be assessment of need undertaken in conjunction with the young person (and their family if appropriate), social workers and residential staff
Shared care for children
The Shared Care Scheme aims to provide regular short term breaks for children and young people with disabilities, by linking them with approved carers who look after them for short periods of time. This can be from a few hours to a weekend a month.
Young carers - support and advice
The local authority Social Services team offer young carers and their families support information and advice.
The service provides recreational respite, advocacy, a befriending service and therapeutic support to young people who have caring responsibilities for a relative with a long-term illness or disability.
Bedford Borough Family Information Service
Bedford Borough Family Information Service is an information service for parents and carers of children and young people aged 0-19 and holds a list of all registered childcare in Bedford Borough.
or a list of childminders, pre-schools / playgroups and day nurseries or for advice on help with childcare costs, please call the Bedford Borough Family Information Service helpline on 0800 023 2057.
