A Step Forward: Welcoming the Government's Focus on Reforming Children's Social Care

As the Director of Stepping Stones Care, I am heartened to see the government taking decisive action to reform the children’s social care system. This renewed focus on ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive is a step in the right direction. Above all, it emphasizes the most important aspect of this work: the quality of care for vulnerable children.

The reforms announced today represent a commitment to addressing years of systemic challenges in children’s social care, including the overburdening of social workers and the rising costs that councils have struggled to meet. The focus on early intervention and empowering social workers is critical. By intervening before problems escalate, we can help keep families together, ensuring better outcomes for children.

The government’s pledge to hold providers to higher standards and tackle subpar or exploitative practices in the sector is also welcome. It is disheartening to see stories of excessive profiteering at the expense of children’s well-being. At Stepping Stones Care, our mission has always been to provide a safe, nurturing environment for children in need, and we are glad to see measures like financial transparency and profit caps being proposed. These steps will ensure that resources are directed where they are most needed: towards the children.

Another encouraging aspect of the reforms is the emphasis on rebalancing the system towards early intervention. Investing in preventative services and creating strong family networks can reduce the number of children entering care in the first place. At Stepping Stones Care, we see first-hand the power of early, meaningful support in changing the trajectory of a child’s life, and we believe this approach will make a significant difference.

Of particular note is the introduction of new powers for Ofsted to act more swiftly against unsafe or unregistered homes. This focus on quality and safety will not only protect children but also elevate standards across the sector. Providers must meet their responsibility to offer more than just housing—they must provide environments that foster growth, security, and a sense of belonging.

Finally, the government's plan to expand the Staying Close programme and provide better support for care leavers is a crucial step. Transitioning out of care can be a vulnerable time for young people, and offering consistent support beyond 18 will help them navigate this critical stage of life.

While these reforms are promising, it’s essential that they are implemented effectively and backed by sufficient resources. The challenges facing the children’s social care sector, including workforce shortages and rising demand, require sustained attention and funding. As stakeholders in this vital system, we at Stepping Stones Care are committed to working alongside the government, local authorities, and other providers to ensure these reforms translate into meaningful improvements for children and families.

This announcement gives us hope. By prioritising the welfare of children and setting a higher standard for care, the government is taking steps toward a system that truly supports every child’s right to thrive. This is a vision we fully support, and we look forward to playing our part in making it a reality.