Written question WQ96128

The Government has previously outlined the timelines for the two main elements of the Act where guidance will be required, in the Explanatory Memorandum accompanying the Bill during scrutiny.

In relation to eliminating profit from the care of looked after children, the intention is for the relevant provisions of the Act to be brought into effect through subordinate legislation at the appropriate time so that:

• from 1 April 2026 – no new for-profit providers of restricted children’s services (care home, fostering and secure accommodation services) are able to register in Wales;

• from 1 April 2027 – no additional beds or foster carers are able to be added by existing for-profit providers of a children’s care home, secure accommodation service or fostering service;

• Not later than April 2030 – no new placements of children within existing for-profit children’s care homes, fostering and secure accommodation service providers by English placing authorities except in exceptional circumstances specified in regulations. No new placements from Welsh placing authorities unless there is Ministerial approval via the supplementary placements process set out in the Act.

In relation to enabling direct payments for continuing NHS healthcare (CHC), the intention is for provisions relating to this to be implemented in spring 2026.

Ahead of each of these steps, the Welsh Government will consult and engage as appropriate on the legislation and any accompanying guidance or Code of Practice. The Government will keep Members informed of any relevant consultations as they are issued.