There are currently a range of permanence options for children in public care, all of which can deliver good outcomes for individual children.<\/p>
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For many looked-after children, permanence will be secured outside of the care system through a safe return to their family. In April 2015, the government made changes to the care planning regulations and the statutory guidance \u2018Working together to safeguard children\u2019 to ensure a sharper focus on a safe and successful return home for children where this is the best route to permanence. This included a requirement that the authority appropriately assesses the proposed arrangements for the child and sets out the support that will be provided when the child ceases to be looked-after.<\/p>
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Special guardianship or adoption offer permanence for other groups of children. Local authorities are responsible for core adoption and special guardianship support, including information, advice, guidance, training and financial assistance.<\/p>
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To improve practice where the best permanence option for children is to remain looked-after, the government amended regulations in April 2015 to introduce \u2018long term foster care\u2019 as a distinct placement type. Every looked-after child must have a care plan which includes a \u2018plan for permanence\u2019 and sets out the support they will receive.<\/p>
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