Ofsted Cracks Down on Supported Accommodation for Kids in Care
Ofsted is stepping in to regulate supported accommodation for children in care and care leavers aged 16 to 17. Until now, these young people often lived in unsupervised housing, sometimes in unsafe places like caravans and boats.
New Rules to Protect Vulnerable Youth
Supported accommodation helps young people live semi-independently, but without independent checks, risks were high. New government quality standards, published last month, demand safer, tailored housing. Providers must register with Ofsted by 28 October 2023 — no registration, no running supported accommodation.
Ofsted Guides Providers and Prepares for Inspections
From 28 April, providers can apply to Ofsted using fresh guidance detailing the registration process. Ofsted will also consult on inspection methods this summer and start pilot inspections in autumn, with full inspections kicking off in April 2024.
Yvette Stanley, National Director Regulation and Social Care: “I’m pleased we’re finally regulating supported accommodation properly. For many care leavers ready for independence, this is the right option, but quality has been patchy for too long. We’re committed to striking the right balance — acting sensibly but always putting children first. Supported accommodation should be caring, kind, and nurturing. We’ll keep listening to young people and providers as we shape our inspection approach.”
