Government commits to major children’s social care reforms

The government has announced a shift in how children’s social care services are delivered, guided by the findings of an independent review published today.

The government is setting out initial new measures in response to recommendations set out in Josh MacAlister’s independent review of children’s social care, which looked at how children and their families interact with the care system and how it can be improved.

The review called for more help for families in crisis, decisive action in response to abuse, and a commitment for those in care to benefit from lifelong loving relationships.

Families most at risk will be supported to stay safely together under the reforms, with a focus on early help and preventing situations from reaching crisis point.

The government has revealed plans to set up a new National Implementation Board of sector experts and people with experiencing of leading change and the care system.

It aims to boost efforts to recruit more foster carers, increase support for social workers, improve data sharing, and implement a new evidence-based framework for all professionals working in children’s social care.

Seven areas of England will also receive funding to set up family hubs which offer early help and intervention, in recognition of the importance of strong, joined up local services as a foundation for an improved social care system.

Local authorities will also receive funding for schemes that support vulnerable children to remain engaged in their education and strengthen links between social care and education.

Education Secretary Nadhim Zahawi said: ‘This is the start of a journey to change the culture and dramatically reform the children’s social care system.

‘Everything we do to raise the outcomes for children and families must be backed by evidence. This report will be central in taking forward our ambition to ensure every child has a loving and stable home and we will continue working with experts and people who have experienced care to deliver change on the ground.

‘I am grateful to Josh MacAlister for his work, as well as to the families, young people, and professionals who shared their experiences. We are ready to meet the challenge set by this review and I will set out my plans for bold and ambitious change in the coming months.’

Photo by Jonathan Borba