Alternative delivery models have the potential to play an important role in improving children’s social care services. However there are only a handful of active examples and we need need more evidence about the operating models that offer the best vehicle for delivering excellent children’s social care, as well as securing a financially sustainable service.

Innovation Programme projects are exploring options for improving children’s outcomes by reforming their operating models, building on the learning from the Children’s Trusts in Doncaster and Slough, and from innovative practice in the Triborough and in Richmond and Kingston. This includes exploring the potential for combining with other local authorities, developing nonprofit social care trusts, forming partnerships with charities, or developing other nonprofit ideas for social care delivery.