The Adoption and Special Guardianship Support Fund (ASGSF) is a vital initiative by the UK government, designed to provide therapeutic support to children who have been adopted or are under special guardianship orders.
On 1st April 2025, Children’s Minister, Janet Daby, announced that the ASGSF will continue with a funding allocation of £50 million for the 2025-26 period.
Since then the funding amount has been changed. Sadly, the maximum amount available for each child, subject to assessment of need, has reduced from £5000 per year to £3000.
Why is the ASGSF Important?
Children who have experienced care often face complex emotional and psychological challenges that come from past traumas.
The ASGSF helps adopters and carers access essential therapeutic services aimed at addressing these challenges, thereby promoting children’s well-being and integration into their new family environments.
Benefits of Therapy for Children Who Have Experienced Care
Therapeutic interventions funded by the ASGSF offer lots of benefits, including:
- Emotional Healing: Therapies such as play therapy, art therapy, and counseling help children process past traumas and express their feelings in a safe environment.
- Improved Relationships: Family therapy sessions enhance communication and strengthen bonds between children and their adoptive or guardian families.
- Behavioral Improvements: Targeted interventions assist in addressing behavioral issues, leading to better social interactions and academic performance.
- Enhanced Self-Esteem: By understanding and working through their experiences, children can build a more positive self-image and gain confidence.
At YAA, we offer training and support to our families on therapeutic parenting and our staff are Theraplay trained. Learn more about our training and support here.
Accessing Support Through the ASGSF
Families seeking support can apply through their local authorities or Regional Adoption Agencies (RAAs).
The ASGSF provides up to £2,500 per child per year for specialist assessments and up to £3,000 per child per year for therapy. In exceptional cases, additional funding may be available, with local authorities or RAAs contributing to the costs.
The continuation of the ASGSF underscores the government’s commitment to supporting the unique needs of children who have experienced care.
By facilitating access to tailored therapeutic services, the fund plays a crucial role in helping these children heal, grow, and thrive within their new family settings.
Learn more and apply here Adoption and special guardianship support fund (ASGSF) – GOV.UK
Write to your MP about the changes made by government to the ASGSF!
AdoptionUK have shared a template letter which you can copy and amend here.
YAA pride ourselves on our support package which is available to all our families – as standard. Learn more about YAA’s adoption support