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 2024 to 31 July 2025. 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. For purposes of presentation, table columns and chart axes refer to these as whole years (e.g., 2025 reflects 01 August 2024-31 July 2025 collection).

This report includes some revisions to figures for the preceding reporting year (2023-24) in line with ongoing data validation improvements. As such, some 2023-24 figures may be different to those previously reported. The percentage of eligible young people receiving aftercare support in 2024 has been revised from 48% in last year's publication to 51% in this report. Please refer to background notes on comparability over time.

This reports includes statistics on the number of unaccompanied asylum seeking (UAS) children who were looked after in Scotland during 2024/25. This is the first time figures for UAS children have been included in these statistics.