March 5th 2024
Ofsted confirms plans for inspecting supported accommodation providers
Ofsted has published guidance for inspecting supported accommodation for looked after children and care leavers aged 16-17.
The guidance follows extensive consultation with providers, children, care leavers and the wider social care sector.
These inspections will start in September 2024 rather than April as originally planned, to give providers more time to digest the guidance while Ofsted prioritises dealing with the large volume of registration applications, including many from providers that are already accommodating children and care leavers.
The consultation ran from 10th July to 8th September 2023 and received 280 responses, including 58 responses to a survey of young people. Overall there was support for Ofsted’s original proposals but, following consideration of the detailed responses, some changes have been made.
Ofsted has confirmed the three-outcomes model for the first round of supported accommodation inspections. However, the second outcome summary has been adjusted to ensure the quality of providers is captured accurately.
The three summary outcomes are:
- Consistently strong service delivery leads to typically positive experiences and progress for children. Where improvements are needed, leaders and managers take timely and effective action. The next inspection will be within approximately three years
- Inconsistent quality of service delivery adversely affects some children’s experiences, and this may limit their progress. Leaders and managers must make improvements. The next inspection will be within approximately 18 months
- Serious or widespread weaknesses lead to significant concerns about the experiences and progress of children. Leaders and managers must take urgent action to address failings. The next inspection will be within approximately six months
Ofsted has confirmed that providers will be given two working days’ notice before inspectors arrive on site. However, the inspection will start as soon as it is announced, meaning any information gathered in the two days before inspectors arrive – including conversations with young people and professionals – will form part of the inspection evidence.
There was strong agreement about the features of effective supported accommodation, and feedback from respondents to the consultation has informed the final inspection guidance.
Sir Martyn Oliver, His Majesty’s Chief Inspector, said: ‘For young people who are leaving or preparing to leave care, supported accommodation can be an important part of their transition to independence.
‘Where providers are offering young people high-quality and nurturing support, it can be transformative, but we know that too much provision isn’t good enough. I’m really pleased that for the first time, Ofsted will be able to inspect supported accommodation in the interests of the young people who need it.’
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