An overview of the Act summarizes its provisions, describes the principles and philosophies underlying it, and points out the need for additional resources to support its ambitions. A holistic model of training and learning is outlined that highlights the major training issues and brings together different interlinking aspects with particular reference to the Act. Another article examines some of the key implications for social services departments and considers some of the interagency requirements that will arise. Teachers will be involved in the Act in terms of primary issues including the identification assessment of children in need and the new provision for education supervision orders as well as more general training issues. As the largest reform of children's law, the Act will also have major implications for medical staff, particularly pediatricians. Separate articles explore the impact that the legislation will have on solicitors, educational psychologists, health professionals, and family members. The Act contains important provisions regarding the relationship between the voluntary sector and its relationship with local and State agencies. Finally, the Act will change the way in which residential care institutions are managed. Chapter references