A TOTAL of 1,500 children are classed as "at risk" in Stoke-on-Trent – 400 up on the previous year.

Figures revealed in a Stoke-on-Trent City Council report show that as of November last year, there were 1,500 children who were still living at home with their parents, but were subject to a child protection plan.

That figure is a rise of more than 36 per cent from the previous year, when 1,100 children were at risk in their own homes.

The report was presented to a private meeting of the city council's corporate parenting panel, which was also told there were 429 children in care, an increase of five on 2010.

Councillor Alan Dutton, vice-chairman of the panel, said: "It was a matter of finding out why there has been such a rise.

"In the past people have taken the attitude that, 'it's nothing to do with me'. People have turned a blind eye to it.

"Now, after issues like Baby P, people are more aware and are more willing to report parents who they think are neglecting or badly treating children.

"The economic situation in the country has not helped, with people being thrown out of work and the pressures that brings."

A child must have suffered from neglect, or from either physical, emotional or sexual abuse, and be at risk of further harm before they are placed "at risk".

An assessment is then carried out within 24 hours and if necessary, the child can be taken out of that environment.

Then, within 15 days, and following the input and advice of other organisations including police and health bodies, the case will go before a child protection panel, which will decide if an action plan is needed and what they will be.

It could include parenting lessons, monitoring to ensure a child attends school or eats properly, or even removing an abusive parent from the home.

Simon Harris, chief executive of Stoke-on-Trent CAB, which is heavily involved in the Family Support Network, formed to help parents in crisis, said: "What we have seen is lots of people struggling financially trying to deal with debt.

"That can be quite stressful.

"Our role will be to provide advice on issues like benefit claims and also to help with any debt. That is quite likely to distract parents from parenting effectively.

"Other agencies involved deal with issues such as providing counselling, drug abuse treatment, or any mental health issues."

Councillor Debra Gratton, cabinet member for children's services, pictured left, said: "It is important that we carry out a full examination of each case presented to us to make sure the best level of service is provided and children remain safe in Stoke-on-Trent."