Cash for families
This study explores if giving direct financial payments to families receiving social care support can improve children's mental health and wellbeing. We know that these types of payments have helped families in other areas, and this research aims to see if the same is true in England. Families with a child receiving social care support (like Child in Need or Child Protection Plans) will join by chance one of two groups: one group receives weekly financial payments for 45 weeks, alongside their usual social care, while the other group continues with their usual social care only. Researchers will ask families and children to complete surveys to understand the impact of the payments on their wellbeing, family life, and stresses. The goal is to provide strong evidence to help decide if this kind of support could benefit more families in the future.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This study, called 'Cash for families,' is looking into whether giving money directly to families who are already getting support from social services can make a positive difference to their children's mental health and overall happiness. Some past research from other countries suggests that simply giving families cash payments can help improve how children and parents feel, both physically and mentally. This study wants to find out if this is also true for families in England.
The idea is that if families have more money, it might help reduce financial worries or stress at home. This could then lead to a better home environment for children, which could ultimately improve their mental health and wellbeing. This research is important because it will provide strong information that could help decision-makers decide if this approach is a good way to support more families in the future, especially as it involves a new, potentially costly, type of support.
Researchers will also be closely watching how this financial help actually works in practice. For example, they'll check if the money is delivered as planned and understand how it might reduce stress or make family life better. By collecting this information, they can see not just if it works, but how and why it works, which is really useful for making future plans.
Key takeaways
- Aims to see if giving money to families with social care involvement helps children's wellbeing.
- Families are randomly put into two groups: one gets extra money, one doesn't.
- Children aged 10-16 in families with 'Child in Need' or 'Child Protection Plan' status can join.
- Participation involves online surveys about wellbeing and family life.
- No expected risks, and all usual social care continues as normal.
- Results could help shape future support for families in the UK.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for families to take part who live in certain local areas and already have a child receiving support from social services. This includes families whose child has a 'Child in Need' status or a 'Child Protection Plan'. The child in the family needs to be between 10 and 16 years old.
There are also some specific reasons why a family might not be able to take part. For example, if the only reason a child is receiving social care is due to a disability. Also, if there's a known risk that the financial help could lead to harm, like if there are serious concerns about financial exploitation or substance use that could get worse with more money, then the family wouldn't be able to join.
Families also wouldn't be eligible if there's a strong chance the child might be taken into care soon, or if family members are involved in criminal investigations related to money. These checks are in place to make sure the study is safe and helpful for everyone involved.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Does your family live in a local area participating in the study?
- Do you have at least one child between 10 and 16 years old?
- Is your child currently receiving social care support (e.g., Child in Need or Child Protection Plan)?
- Is your child's social care status due to something other than just a disability?
- Are there no concerns about financial exploitation or harm if your family received extra money?
- Is your family not facing imminent court proceedings to take a child into care?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, your family will be put into one of two groups completely by chance, like flipping a coin. One group will receive extra weekly payments for 45 weeks, along with their usual social care support. The other group, called the control group, will continue to receive their usual social care support and any benefits they already get, but no extra money through this study.
Your social worker or another local authority staff member will introduce you to the study. You, as the parent or carer, and your child will be asked to complete up to three online surveys. These surveys will ask about your wellbeing, how your family is doing, your finances, and home life. You'll complete one survey at the very start, and then again after 4, 8, and 18 months. Both you and your child will receive a gift voucher each time you complete a survey as a thank you.
Some parents and carers will also be asked if they'd like to have a chat (an interview) with the researchers during the study to talk about their experiences. They will also receive a gift voucher for their time. The study is expected to run from April 2025 to September 2028.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Ten to fifteen local authorities in EnglandCity only-, England
Common questions
What is a 'cash transfer'?
It's when families receive payment directly, like a weekly sum of money, to use as they need.
Who is running this study?
The study is being led by The Anna Freud Centre, with help from King's College London and other universities, and local authorities.
Will my family's social care support change if we take part?
No, your usual social care support will continue as normal, regardless of which group you are in.
What happens if we don't want to complete a survey?
Participation is voluntary, and you can choose not to complete surveys or withdraw from the study at any time.
When will the results of the study be available?
The study team expects to report the results around September 2028.
How to find out more
Ping San
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Discussion
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