The pandemic made it harder to identify and support vulnerable children because many were not attending school or seeing services, and safeguarding referrals had fallen. Wales planned to expand its definition of vulnerability and give local authorities flexibility to offer places to children on the edge of care or known to schools and family support services.

Foster carers also faced added pressures and expenses. Some local authorities paid retainers or increased support, but this was not uniform; carers needing extra help were advised to contact their local authority or fostering agency. The Government also supported foster-care guidance and extended helpline access.