The Independent Review of Children's Social Care (in England): Final Report

This review is the most wide ranging rethink of children’s social care in England in more than a generation. In 2019 the UK government’s manifesto committed to reviewing the children’s social care system in England. The review aims to identify the challenges facing children’s social care in England. It is looking at how we can ensure that children grow up in loving, stable, safe families and, where that is not possible, care provides the same foundations. On 15th January 2021, the independent review of children’s social care was announced and Josh MacAlister, a former schoolteacher who founded the social work charity Frontline, was appointed as chair. The review was supported by an experts by experience group, an evidence group and a design group. The experts by experience group helped the lead reviewer to hear the diverse experiences of children and families who are supported by social workers. The evidence group brought together a range of research perspectives and experts in children’s social care to ensure the review’s approach was evidence informed. The design group reflected the range of public services already working to provide children with safety and stability, as well as those with other relevant expertise. The terms of reference of the review set out its wide ranging and ambitious scope. This is its final report.