This version of the data pack updates the information contained in the data pack published in July 2011. The information is drawn from two sources, the DfE statistical collection about looked after children and Ofsted data on children's homes.

The data relates only to looked after children who are placed in children’s homes and so largely excludes information about children placed in unregulated settings (such as hostels or supported lodgings) which are not inspected by Ofsted.  Information about children placed in children’s homes settings as part of short break (respite) care arrangements is also omitted.  But some contextual information is provided on children placed in other types of accommodation, such as secure accommodation and foster care.

The pack is intended to support local authorities responsible for looked after children, placement commissioners, children’s homes providers and their staff to understand how their work relates to wider national trends.

We hope that the information in this pack stimulates questioning at national and local level about the distinctive contribution that children’s homes make to the care of looked after children.

Questions raised by the pack might include:

  • Are there groups of children whose assessed needs are such that placement in a children’s home is likely to be the best option; and how is this understanding reflected in the range and numbers of children’s homes placements commissioned by the authority?
  • Does the authority have access to sufficient children’s homes placements in their region, so that a move to residential care enables young people to continue to be supported by suitable local services.
  • Where children are placed at a distance from their local community how will the local authority support them, to make a planned transition when they are ready for the next move in their lives?
  • What arrangements are in place between the placing authority, the children’s home and services in the area where the home is located to promote children’s emotional health and well being, so that the child can access to additional mental health support where necessary?
  • Does the authority maximise sustained outcomes for individual children so that the costs of placement represent real value for money?
  • Should the authority consider a children’s home placement earlier in a child’s life so as to avoid multiple fostering placements?

The publication of this pack is intended to inform debate about the place of children’s homes within the range of placement options. To help us ensure that the data we publish is as useful as possible we would welcome your feedback. Are there further analyses, which, data permitting, it would be helpful to include in updates to this pack?

If you have any questions about the data presented in this pack, or suggestions for its development, please contact Isabella Craig.

Contact details

Isabella Craig
Email: Isabella.Craig@education.gsi.gov.uk