Last amended by Tobacco and Vapes Act 2026 in 2026. 9 recorded amendment effects (legislation.gov.uk changes data).
Independent editorial summary — not the official statute text. Read the official version on legislation.gov.uk.
Summary
Reformed family justice (introducing a 26-week time limit for care proceedings), reformed adoption law, introduced Education Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) for children with special educational needs, created the Office of the Children's Commissioner, and extended the right to request flexible working.
Key Points
- 26-week time limit for care proceedings (s.14)
- Child arrangements orders replacing residence and contact orders (s.12)
- Revised adoption provisions (Part 1)
- Special educational needs and disability — EHCPs (Part 3)
- Shared parental leave and pay (Part 7)
Parts & Sections
Amendments History
2014 — The Children and Families Act 2014 (Commencement No. 2) Order 2014
26 commencement (coming-into-force) effects (legislation.gov.uk changes data).
2022 — Health and Care Act 2022
20 recorded amendment effects (legislation.gov.uk changes data).
2018 — Additional Learning Needs and Education Tribunal (Wales) Act 2018
18 recorded amendment effects (legislation.gov.uk changes data).
2026 — Tobacco and Vapes Act 2026
9 recorded amendment effects (legislation.gov.uk changes data).
2014 — The Special Educational Needs and Disability Regulations 2014
6 recorded amendment effects (legislation.gov.uk changes data).