This options appraisal has been developed in response to the changing and increasingly complex landscape of therapeutic support for adoptive families and those caring for children under Special Guardianship and Child Arrangement Orders. It reflects a growing recognition of the need to review—and potentially reform—the ASGSF to ensure it remains effective, equitable, and sustainable in meeting the needs of a diverse group of children and their families.

The ASGSF plays a pivotal role in supporting the emotional and mental wellbeing of care-experienced children. It does so through a dual approach: by enabling direct therapeutic interventions for children and young people, and by equipping carers and parents with therapeutic tools and support to help them understand and respond to the complex needs of the children in their care. This integrated model is essential for strengthening family relationships, building resilience and promoting long-term stability and wellbeing.

Sarah Johal MBE, National Strategic Lead for Adoption England, said:

“We hope this appraisal provides a useful foundation for dialogue and supports a collaborative approach to shaping a support system that meets the needs of all children in care and those care experienced children and their parents/carers."