Objectives Children looked after (CLA) are one of the UK’s most vulnerable groups of children but there is no national data set which systematically documents the prevalence of their physical and emotional health needs. Particularly information on prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) and risk of a Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is not routinely collected.¹

To better understand the health needs of a local authority’s CLA population, data was collated from their statutory initial health assessments and separately listed for citizenship children and unaccompanied asylum-seeking young people (UASC). The survey looked both at risk factors in the child’s background potentially associated with future health problems and at current health issues. A specific emphasis was put on the identification of risk factors for PAE and FASD.

Methods The survey comprised 108 statutory initial health assessments undertaken by medical doctors during a period of one year. 75 of the 108 health assessments were conducted with citizenship CLA and 33 with UASC.

An agreed report writing format supported the collation of the relevant data.

Results Citizenship CLA and UASC presented with very different backgrounds and health needs. Many children had multiple risk factors or health conditions.

Conclusion The survey provided a valuable snapshot of the local CLA population which will support the commissioning of services. It highlighted the need for ongoing data capture of health issues. A particular spotlight was thrown on the lack of easily available information on PAE and a consistent diagnostic and management pathway for FASD. This has led to the design of a local data collection tool and further training for community paediatricians, nurses and CAMHS colleagues. A diagnostic and management pathway is also under development.

Reference

1. Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, Quality standard [QS204], National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), 16 March 2022.