The pandemic made it harder to identify and support vulnerable children: many were not attending school, safeguarding referrals initially fell, and some children on the edge of care were not necessarily known to services. The Government planned to expand its definition of vulnerability and give local authorities more flexibility to offer support.

For children in foster care, the Government worked with fostering organisations on guidance and extended helplines. Foster carers also faced extra costs and, in some cases, could temporarily no longer foster; some local authorities provided retainers or additional financial support, and carers needing help were advised to contact their authority or fostering agency.