Unregulated accommodation for vulnerable children to be banned

Whitehall will introduce national standards for unregulated settings that are accommodating 16 and 17-year-olds in care and care leavers, and will launch a consultation on the standards soon.

The government said it will develop plans to support local authorities in creating more places in children’s homes backed by an unspecified amount of additional investment.

Mr Williamson said: “Vulnerable children under 16 are too young for the type of accommodation that provides a place to stay but not the care and support that they need.

“The action taken today – supported by the sector and in response to their views – is an important step in making sure children in care are placed in settings that give them the highest chances of success.

“Our consultation response sets out the urgent steps we are taking to raise the bar for these children, which alongside the independent review of children’s social care will level up outcomes for those most in need.”

Judith Blake, chair of the children and young people board at the Local Government Association, said: “A key driver for the increasing use of unregulated placements for children under 16 is a lack of suitable regulated homes.

“The government’s commitment to funding to increase children’s homes provision, which we have previously called for, is therefore a helpful recognition of the pressures on placements.

“However this funding will not be available immediately, and councils are keen to work with government to quickly develop the places they will need to meet these requirements.”