Council approves new support services for vulnerable children and families
Wednesday, 8 April 2026
Children needing mainstream school support, families affected by domestic abuse, and young people in care will get renewed support under new Central Bedfordshire Council plans.
The proposals for new contracts, which will come into effect in April 2027 for three years, with an option to extend for a further two years, will ensure continued investment in specialist education, safety support and stable care placements when they need them.
One of the largest parts of the programme will focus on young people who cannot currently access mainstream education because of illness, exclusion or additional needs. Specialist providers will offer tailored education programmes designed to help children regain confidence in learning and, where possible, return to school.
These placements might include small group teaching, vocational learning such as construction or mechanics, outdoor learning programmes or one-to-one support for pupils with complex needs.
Demand for this type of support has grown significantly in recent years across the country. In Central Bedfordshire the number of specialist providers working with the Council has increased from 23 to 49 since 2023, helping ensure more young people can access suitable education.
Councillor Gareth Mackey, our Executive Member for Children and Families, said the plans were designed to ensure children and families could access the right help at the right time.
We want every child in Central Bedfordshire to have the opportunity to thrive, but we know that some families need extra support along the way. These plans are about making sure that help is there when it’s needed.
The plans will also strengthen domestic abuse support services across Bedfordshire, delivered in partnership with neighbouring councils and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner.
Support available to families includes safety planning, specialist advice, advocacy, counselling and therapy, as well as practical help such as finding safe accommodation and rebuilding independent lives. Children affected by domestic abuse will also be able to access play therapy and specialist support.
Around £400,000 of government funding is provided each year to support these services locally, alongside additional investment from the Council.
Another key part of the plans focuses on children in care who cannot live at home. While most children are supported through fostering or family arrangements, some young people need the specialist care and support provided in residential children’s homes.
Central Bedfordshire currently has 22 young people living in residential care. The Council is working with other local authorities across the eastern region increase number of local foster carers and improve access to high-quality homes and reduce the number of children who have to move long distances away from their communities.
Cllr Mackey added:
Where children cannot live with their families, it’s vital they receive the care and stability they need. By working with other Councils, we can improve the availability of good quality placements and make sure young people are supported as close to home as possible.