A new report from Ofsted reveals that over 90% of local authorities in England struggle to find suitable homes for children with complex needs, often leading to prolonged waits for a stable placement. Children often end up in homes where they are the sole resident with multiple staff members, risking isolation and potential mistreatment.
Sir Martyn Oliver, His Majesty’s Chief Inspector, highlights the difficulties in finding homes tailored to these children's specific needs, exacerbated by staffing challenges and a lack of secure, therapeutic homes. Yvette Stanley, Ofsted’s National Director for Social Care, acknowledges some good practices but stresses the need for better alignment of children's homes with the needs and locations of these children.
The report criticises the broad categorisation of 'complex needs', advocating for a more individualised approach to better serve each child's unique requirements. Effective practices include well-planned transitions, consistent relationships, appropriate education and fostering a sense of belonging.
Derived from a national survey and case studies, the report underscores the need for strategic oversight in the children’s residential sector and calls for collaboration between local authorities and children's homes. This approach aims to improve the planning and provision of care, ensuring homes are opened in suitable locations to meet the diverse needs of children.
