Children Act 1989
Councils are currently reforming children's social care, extending accommodation services, and reviewing fostering provision under the Children Act 1989.
Hackney Council implemented its "Families First Partnership" programme in September 2026, overhauling children's social care to prioritise early intervention and multi-agency collaboration. This included establishing a single, neighbourhood-based Family Help service, which launched on 5th May. In September 2026, Newham Council approved the development of two new children's homes, and Waltham Forest's Portfolio Lead Member for Children and Young People ratified a 12-month extension for 16+ semi-independent accommodation.
Hillingdon Council's Children, Families and Education Select Committee decided in September 2025 to review its fostering services, focusing on recruitment, retention, and support for children and carers. Havering Council's Governance Committee was scheduled in May 2026 to consider guidance notes for complainants and a report from a Stage Three Children's Complaint Review Panel.
The Children Act 1989 is UK legislation governing local authorities' duties to safeguard and promote the welfare of children. Newham's decision on children's homes is subject to a call-in period, and Hillingdon's committee will undertake its fostering services review.
Key facts
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 1 October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.