Cross-UK comparisons

On 31 March 2025, the rate of children in Scotland on the child protection register was 18.9 per 10,000 (0-17 years) (Chart 4). Scotland’s rate of children on the child protection register has been considerably lower than in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland since 2009. It should be noted that the UK nations operate under differing legislative frameworks.

Chart 4 Cross UK comparisons of rate per 10,000 of children on Child Protection Register [Note 1], [Note 2], [Note 3], [Note 4]

[Note 1] Scotland data is as at 31st March for comparability purposes with other UK countries. The exception to this is between 2011 and 2014 where figures were published as at 31 July. Scotland rate per 10,000 for 2025 was calculated using NRS mid 2024 population estimates (0-17 years).