Introduction

These statistics include data collected from 32 local authorities in Scotland and cover statistics on: looked after children, young people in continuing care, and young people eligible for aftercare.

These figures relate to the reporting year 01 August 2022 to 31 July 2023. All data used to produce the tables and charts are available in the supporting documents, alongside additional breakdowns. Looked After Children statistics form part of our annual Children’s Social Work data collections. Statistics relating to Secure Care and Child Protection are published separately from this year onwards.

For purposes of presentation, table columns and chart axes refer to these as whole years (e.g., 2023 reflects 01 August 2022-31 July 2023 collection). This report includes some revisions to figures for the preceding reporting year (2021-22) in line with ongoing data validation improvements. As such, some 2021-22 figures may be different to those previously reported. Please refer to background notes on comparability over time.