England's child protection system is facing an unprecedented crisis as foster carers and social workers report being systematically targeted by racist harassment and coordinated far-right campaigns, according to a damning new investigation.
"Tipping Point" for Child Protection
The alarming findings reveal that dedicated professionals are being driven away from fostering due to persistent abuse, creating dangerous shortages in homes for vulnerable children. Multiple local authorities have reported carers resigning after facing intimidation from anti-fostering activists.
Organised Campaigns of Intimidation
Social workers described facing coordinated harassment when placing children from different ethnic backgrounds with white families. One professional revealed: "We're seeing organised groups specifically targeting foster families with malicious complaints and public demonstrations designed to intimidate."
Real-World Consequences for Children
The toxic environment is having devastating practical consequences. Authorities in areas including the Midlands and Yorkshire report struggling to find placements for children, with some young people being housed in inappropriate temporary accommodation due to the carer shortage.
Government Response Under Scrutiny
Despite repeated warnings from sector leaders, carers and social workers feel abandoned by authorities. Many report that police and tech companies are failing to adequately address the online abuse that frequently spills into real-world intimidation.
A System Under Siege
The investigation uncovered that false narratives about children being taken from families for ideological reasons are being deliberately spread online, creating a hostile environment that prevents potential new carers from coming forward.
With the foster care system already stretched to breaking point, professionals warn that without urgent intervention to address this harassment, more vulnerable children will be left without the stable homes they desperately need.
