In response to the publication of the government’s implementation strategy for reform of children’s social care, CIPFA’s Social Care Policy Advisor William Burns, said:
“There is much to welcome in this strategy, particularly its focus on outcomes and early intervention, and the intention of reducing the need for crisis response. However, the funding of £200 million over two years is a long way from the £2.6 billion over four years that was called for by the independent review of children’s social care.
“In May 2022, the independent review highlighted that there was ‘not a moment to lose’. But with much of the funding announced today going to pilot areas, children in the majority of the country will not benefit from the additional investment necessary and face an uncertain future.
“A twin-track approach, which funds the critical issues facing the sector now, while also providing certainty of funding in the long term is needed. This would enable preventative investment and long-term planning to ensure that children receive the care they deserve.”
Notes to editor:
The government’s implementation strategy for reform of children’s social care, ‘Stable Homes, Built on Love’ can be found on the Gov.uk website
For more information, please visit the CIPFA press desk.