London uses data to predict which children will be abused

London councils are using data analytics to predict which children are at risk for neglect and abuse, allowing them to act before crisis occurs and prevent more costly, extensive interventions. Developed by technology company Xantura and trialled by councils including Hackney and Thurrock, the model analyses various data sources, including school and health records, to judge families’ risk scores. Around 80% accurate, it identifies and alerts social workers to those who need extra support.