Question to the Department for Education:

To ask His Majesty's Government what analysis they have undertaken of the average amount awarded per recipient through the Adoption and Special Guardianship Support Fund in each financial year since 2015–16; and what assessment they have made of trends in the average level of support required by recipients.

The department routinely reviews data relating to the Adoption and Special Guardianship Support Fund (ASGSF). The average amount of funding per recipient increased from £2,336 in 2017/18 to £3,090 in 2024/25, reflecting changes in demand and the cost of therapeutic support over time. In 2025/26, the average amount approved per recipient was £2,537.

The decision to set the Fair Access Limit at £3,000 from April 2025 was taken to ensure that the available budget could support the maximum number of eligible children whilst remaining within the budget. The department has previously assessed that £3,000 could fund an average of approximately 19 to 20 hours of therapy, based on median therapeutic costs and associated expenses. During 2025/26, the average approved therapy cost was £2,537, below the Fair Access Limit.

The department is currently considering responses to its consultation on the future of Adoption Support. Evidence from the operation of the fund during 2025/26 will contribute to the department’s consideration of future adoption support arrangements.