Referrals for children with complex needs 'rejected by hundreds of care providers'

14 April 1 min read Joanne Parkes Social Care

Ofsted’s sharpened focus on children’s stability in care placements has been welcomed by the Association of Directors of Children’s Services (ADCS).

Judgments will cover timeliness of a provider’s work to prepare children for their next move. Picture: Alex Deverill

It is not unusual for a single placement referral for a child with complex needs to be rejected by “hundreds of registered providers” who fear their Ofsted rating will be impacted, said the ADCS.

Ofsted announced the Social Care Common Inspection Framework (SSCIF) changes in response to this trend – with research finding that 91% of local authorities are struggling to find suitable placements for these children. In addition, it found that ‘good’ or ‘outstanding’ homes were particularly hesitant due to worries over a downgrade.

Inspections will now focus on how providers promote and sustain stability for children, including those with high needs.

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