Should England implement the DfE’s 2026–29 children’s social care reform plan?

The Department for Education has published an implementation plan for reforms to children’s social care in England between 2026 and 2029. The plan follows the Keeping Children Safe, Helping Families Thrive policy paper and the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Act 2026. It directs local authorities and partner agencies to expand early help, strengthen kinship care and improve placement quality.