I am writing to request information about the numbers and cost of placements for 16 and 17 year old looked after children in your local authority. Can you please answer the following questions:

1. How many 16 and 17 year old looked after children is your local authority responsible for currently?
48 at 30/04/2023

2. How many 16 and 17 year old looked after children in your local authority are currently placed out of area?
37 at 30/04/2023

3. How many 16 and 17 year old looked after children were accommodated in spot purchased placements (off framework/contracted arrangements) in the 22/23 financial year?
27 at 30/04/2023

4. What was the cost of placements/supported accommodation for 16 and 17 year olds per week for the 22/23 financial year?
a) lowest cost - £200 per week
b) highest cost - £994 per week
c) average cost - £3900 per week (Included some 1:1 support)

5. Are there sufficient placements in your local authority area for 16 and 17 year old looked after children who have a high level of complex needs?
No