Member

Substantial UK evidence shows that, for children in care, Lifelong Links increases their positive connections, mental health, sense of identity and stability in where they live, and that it reduces the risk of homelessness. Lifelong Links is now available in over 40 councils across the UK, 22 of which have Department for Education funding to run the programme. My amendment would lay the foundation for setting out in regulations and guidance that all children in care, and care leavers, should have access to the Lifelong Links approach. Obviously, relationships should not be severed in the first place, so the contact details of all those who came together for family group decision-making, and other key relationships which emerge through the Lifelong Links process, should be kept on file by local authorities. Social workers, personal advisers and others can then support children in the care system to maintain or build positive relationships with those who are important to them. Over time, what is possible and who will benefit will change.