Recent research suggests teenagers get less help from social services because a lack of resources means those in social work jobs often prioritise younger more vulnerable children. 

A three year study into the protection of maltreated children aged between 11 and 17, was conducted by the University of York in conjunction with The Children's Society and the NSPCC. Results of the report called 'Safeguarding Young People', found that current child protection processes are aimed more at protecting younger children.

The results of the study indicated that as a child got older, they were less likely to be considered to be at risk and therefore were not made subject of child protection procedures. The report also suggested that because young people often found it difficult to disclose their maltreatment and struggled to create relationships with social workers, it could result in a younger child in similar circumstance being put first. 

The release of the report is likely to ensure that those working in qualified social worker jobs are especially mindful, when dealing with young adults.

Bob Reitemeier, the chief executive of the Children's Society told The Guardian that it was important support agencies remembered that older children needed as much care as younger children.

"Many older children who we work with are just as vulnerable as younger children, if not more so. It's important that we review the way we support these young people and which approach works best for them once they have disclose maltreatment," he said.

The research made a number of recommendations, including more service provisions for young people.