Crossword Genius

To sponsor youngsters in care maybe not progressive? (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

backwards

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'care maybe not progressive?' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this defines the answer.

'to sponsor youngsters' is the wordplay.
'to sponsor' becomes 'back'.
'youngsters' becomes 'wards' (ward can mean a child under someone's care).
'back'+'wards'='BACKWARDS'

'in' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for backwards that I've seen before include "In reverse order" , "In the direction of the rear" , "in disarray after wicked lie" , "Retrogressive" , "In retreat" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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