The Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill has now become law
The Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill has now become law (April 2026), introducing wide-ranging changes to improve child protection, social care, and education in England. It aims to ensure vulnerable children don’t fall through gaps in services and that all children receive a better, more consistent standard of education and support.
Stronger child protection and social care
New legal duties improve safeguarding and information-sharing between services.
More support is provided for children in care and those leaving care.
Kinship carers (family members raising children) are given greater legal recognition.
Better support for families
Local authorities must help families earlier to prevent children entering care.
A more joined-up system aims to stop children being “missed” by services.
Changes to schools and education
All state schools face tighter regulation, including academies.
New rules aim to improve teacher quality and consistency.
Free breakfast clubs will be introduced in primary schools.
Limits placed on expensive branded school uniforms.
Tracking and attendance
A register of children not in school will be created.
Councils gain more oversight of home-educated children.
Overall goal
The law is designed to reduce inequality, improve life chances, and ensure every child has access to safe care and a good education.
Families to save up to £1,000 as children’s reforms become law