ADCS first posed the question What is Care For? in 2012. The resulting paper highlighted the need for a care system better equipped to meet the needs of children and young people. Since then, ADCS has published updates in 2013 and 2021, reflecting developments in policy and practice, as well as the growing scale and complexity of need, particularly amongst adolescents.
Against this backdrop, and alongside an ambitious programme of national reform to children’s and wider public services, the updated edition of What is Care For? examines progress made in addressing the challenges identified in the original 2012 publication. It also explores how the care system has evolved over the past decade, assesses the extent to which outcomes have improved for children and young people in care, and highlights the areas where further change is needed.
What is Care For? 2026 identifies three key priorities for the sector and for government:
- A more flexible, relational approach that moves beyond the traditional binary distinctions within care. This includes strengthening family relationships, sibling bonds and community connections through shared care arrangements.
- A stronger emphasis to be placed on permanence and stability, recognising the diverse experiences of children and young people in care. This includes expanding and strengthening support for those living in kinship care arrangements and under Special Guardianship Orders.
- A renewed and greater focus on adolescence, particularly for young people experiencing risks outside the home and those subject to Deprivation of Liberty orders. This requires a shared vision and a more coordinated response across social care, health, education and policing partners.
View "Whats is care for?" 2026 (pdf)
Previous statements:
What is care for? 2021
What is care for? - Alternative models of care for adolescents - April 2013
Research in Practice was commissioned by ADCS to undertake a rapid review of the evidence from research and practice on models of adolescent care provision beyond the residential children’s home model.
What is care for? 2012
