Source · Select Committees · Education Committee
Recommendation 54
54
Accepted
Evaluate existing reunification practices and publish national guidance based on local authority good practice.
Conclusion
The Department for Education should evaluate existing reunification practice and publish national guidance on reunification, drawing on the good practice that already exists in many local authorities. (Recommendation, Paragraph 133) Disabled children’s care
Government Response Summary
The government has commissioned Foundations to develop a practice guide for reunification, due to be published in summer 2026. It also notes that existing regulations already provide direction and believes whole system change will have a greater impact than additional guidance.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
We have also commissioned Foundations to develop a practice guide for reunification which will set out the strongest available evidence translated into actionable key principles and recommendations for local leaders. This is due to be published in summer 2026. The Care Planning, Placement and Case Review regulations and guidance already provides clear direction for local authorities regarding their duty to return a looked after child to their family unless this is not consistent with safeguarding and promoting the child’s welfare. The rollout of Family Help provides an opportunity to strengthen practice and improve outcomes for these children and their families. We believe this investment in whole system change will have a greater impact than additional guidance. Disabled children’s care