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Profile of neurodevelopmental and behavioural problems and associated psychosocial factors among a cohort of newly looked after children in an English local authority

Limited research has been undertaken into the neurodevelopmental profile of looked after children and young people who are known to be highly vulnerable to mental and physical health morbidities. This study seeks to assess the prevalence of childhood neurodisabilities and related neurodevelopmental, emotional, behavioural and intellectual problems (NDEBIPs) among a cohort of children coming into care in an English local authority. A retrospective review of all referrals to a local authority health team between January and December 2018 was carried out as part of its clinical governance strategies. No identifiable patient record was used and no research ethical approval was required. A total of 56 out of 80 (70%) children had at least one or more NDEBIPs (average of two), including behavioural (32.5%) and emotional problems (16%), attachment difficulties (14%) and speech/language delay (12.5%). This compares with a prevalence of up to 15% reported in normal childhood populations. Fifty-one (91%) of the looked after children and young people with NDEBIPs experienced at least one or more psychosocial adversities/trauma (average of five). Each of them received help from an average of four multidisciplinary professionals including social workers, dentists, opticians and health visitors and had an average of three physical/mental health diagnoses. The implications of this high prevalence are discussed together with recommendations arising from clinical experience. Particularly salient is the need for planning future integrated multi-agency services to meet children’s complex needs.