Children in care gain legal right to sibling contact in landmark reform

Children and young people in care across England are set to gain a new legal right to maintain contact with their brothers and sisters, following a landmark amendment to the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill.

The change—granting a right to “reasonable contact” with siblings—marks the culmination of a 13-year campaign led by Family Rights Group, and has been welcomed across the sector as a significant step forward in recognising the importance of family relationships for children in care.

For years, campaigners have raised concerns about the routine separation of siblings when children enter care, often with limited efforts to maintain those relationships.

Cathy Ashley described the reform as long overdue: “Growing up alongside brothers or sisters is a fundamental part of childhood… for too long, our care system has overseen a quiet injustice…breaking the links between siblings, often when they need one another the most.”

She added that the amendment represents a turning point: “By tabling this amendment, the Government is finally righting this historic wrong.”

The amendment will place stronger expectations on local authorities to actively support and maintain sibling relationships, an area where practice has historically been inconsistent.

Become, which worked alongside Family Rights Group on the proposals, said the legal change would help embed better practice.

Anela Anwar said: “Too often, children are separated from their brothers and sisters, with too little done to maintain those relationships.” She added the reform will “better protect these vital bonds.”

The change comes in response to growing evidence about the extent of sibling separation in care. Research from the Children’s Commissioner in 2023 found that:

- Around 37% of children in care with a sibling—approximately 20,000 children—are separated
- Separation rises to 93% among older children in semi-independent accommodation
- Disabled children entering care are even more likely to be separated from siblings

These figures have intensified calls for systemic reform, particularly given the well-established links between stable relationships and positive outcomes for care-experienced children.

For those with lived experience, sibling relationships can be a crucial source of stability.

Parice, a care-experienced young person who was reconnected with her sibling through the Lifelong Links scheme said: “Sibling relationships are often built on a strong foundation of support, offering both emotional reassurance and practical help throughout life. For those who have experienced the foster care system, these bonds can be especially significant, providing a vital sense of belonging in times of uncertainty. Shared history and memories create a unique connection, alongside similarities that can feel unlike any other relationship.”

She highlighted how shared memories and experiences create “a unique connection” that cannot easily be replicated elsewhere.

Alongside legislative change, there is increasing focus on relational approaches within social work practice. Family Rights Group’s ‘Lifelong Links’ model—designed to help children maintain enduring connections with family members—has already supported more than 4,800 children.

The programme has been associated with improved mental health, stronger identity and stability, and a reduced risk of homelessness.