More children were referred to social workers because of abuse risks

In the past year the figure has risen by 9% to 9,132.

However, the number who were on child protection registers fell by 4% to 2,157 at the end of March - equivalent to two children out of every 1,000.

Ministers said the rise in referrals showed protection steps were working and did not indicate a rise in abuse.

The statistics, published by the Scottish Executive, showed that the total number of youngsters in care rose by 4% to 12,185.

Although the overall number on child protection registers fell, there was a 2% increase in children added to the registers because of neglect.

The most dangerous place for some children is in fact their own home Robert Brown Deputy Minister for Young People

Over the same period there was a 15% drop in the number of youngsters on the register because of physical injury, a 13% fall in the number of emotional abuse cases and a 3% fall in the number who had been sexually abused.

There was an average of 87 children in secure accommodation over the course of the year - with each place costing an average of �3,458 a week.

The figures also showed that more than half of all 16 and 17-year-olds leaving care failed to attain any educational qualifications.

About 45% managed to pass one or more standard grades, the statistics said.

'Vast majority'

However, the figure did represent a slight increase on the previous year, with 42% of care leavers achieving that in 2003/04.

Robert Brown, Deputy Minister for Education and Young People, said: "The most dangerous place for some children is in fact their own home.

"The vast, vast majority of children and young people are brought up very successfully.