Our new advice to help cut through Child Trust Fund confusion

2 mins read

Tuesday 4 November 2025

We have launched a new, dedicated advice flowchart aimed at simplifying the steps for families of disabled young people attempting to access their Child Trust Fund (CTF) savings.

You can use this flowchart wherever you live in the UK.

We have developed the tool with Contact Change Maker Andrew Turner, in response to feedback from families.  

What’s the issue? 

For families of young people who lack mental capacity, the process of accessing their savings at 18 often requires an application to the Court of Protection (COP) in England and Wales. The process in Scotland is simpler, using the Access to Funds scheme.  

For savers with only a Child Trust Fund, this can be an unduly lengthy and burdensome process. Contact is working hard with Andrew Turner to lobby the government to change this for families.  

We want the government to back a simplified process already used by some Child Trust Fund providers. 

It is important to note that for young people with other assets, or medical negligence settlements, a Deputyship order via the Court of Protection is likely to be the appropriate route (or alternatives in Scotland).  

Why a flowchart?  

You have been telling us that even knowing where to start in this process is a challenge. We hope that our flowchart will help provide some much needed guidance. 

It is designed as an essential ‘first steps’ tool, providing a clear, step-by-step path to help you work out what to do next.  

We also want to reach as many families as possible and encourage them to take action before their young person turns 18. Before this age, the parent still controls the account.

However, if your young person is now 18 or over, please don’t despair! We have seen families able to help their child access their savings without the need for a lengthy court process.  

Who is the flowchart for? 

Families in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland can use the flowchart.

It is not designed to replace professional legal or financial advice. 

Where can I find out more about the campaign? 

Head to our Child Trust Fund campaignn page or join our dedicated Facebook campaign group.