Objective: The aim of this article is to understand how social services contribute to the well-being of children and young people who use them. Method: The research study, based on Capability Approach, was done using a mixed-research strategy. Participants: The collection of data took place through 44 indepth semi-structured interviews with children, young people and their parents/foster parents who use social services in one of the regional capitals of the Czech Republic. Results: Parents at risk underrate their role in loving and caring for their children. Parents at risk are more likely than children to undervalue education. Social services do not develop youngsters’ capability to live a meaningful life. Conclusion: The research has shown that although social services have significant potential to ensure well-being for children and youth, they work primarily in a way that provides clients with basic social functioning in the present, without influencing their future positively.