Nigel Minns, Chair of the ADCS Health, Care and Additional Needs Policy Committee, said: 

“While it is good to see the Adoption and Special Guardianship Support Fund, which provides essential therapy and other support services for adopted children and their families, has been extended, the delay in announcing this extension resulted in increased anxieties for families and increased workloads for our staff.

“The reduced funding allocation per child will cover some but not all children’s needs, especially those with more complex needs and early childhood trauma where a greater level of support may be required. Local authorities have not been funded to top up any shortfalls.

“Given the fund supports long-term government policy aims, it should be mainstreamed and not reliant on spending review bids. Ultimately, devolving this funding to local or regional areas to collaborate and co-commission specialist support, for when and where it is needed, will lead to better value and impact.”

Ends