Rise in referrals to the Children and Families Service

The Department of Health and Social Care says it's seen a rise in the number of referrals to its Children and Families Service.

In the second quarter of this year, referrals rose to 345 - the figure last year was just 281.

In a report to be considered by Tynwald this week, it says it expected 78 referrals each month but the latest figures show 103 concerns about children are being raised monthly.

Almost all referrals were about abuse, neglect, family dysfunction and stress and were made by police, parents and health professionals.