Ofsted Fast-Tracks Children’s Homes Applications

As demand for children’s social care grows, Ofsted has introduced a streamlined approach to prioritising children’s home registration applications. The aim is to ensure vulnerable children receive the care they need as quickly as possible. However, the registration process can be complex, and navigating it requires careful attention. At RWK Goodman, we are here to support you through this process and help ensure your application is submitted correctly for timely approval.

Ofsted prioritises certain children’s homes applications based on urgency, aiming to safeguard the well-being of children.

Priority applications include:

• Emergency Placement: When a local authority urgently requires accommodation for a specific child.
• Sufficiency Gaps: Where there is a lack of available placements in the area.
• Capital Funding: For homes funded by the Department for Education to increase provision.
• Unaccompanied Asylum-Seeking Children: For homes catering to children under the National Transfer Scheme.
• Deprivation of Liberty Orders: When a child with a DoL order needs urgent registration while in an unregistered home.
• Exceptional Circumstances: Such as the closure of other services or critical regional gaps.

Applications may also be prioritised if:

• High Demand Areas: Where there are significant placement shortages.
• Specialised Care: For children with complex needs, including those transitioning from secure children’s homes or long-term hospital stays.
• Incorrect Registrations: If a home was previously registered incorrectly and needs to apply with a different regulator.

Ensure you clearly highlight if your application falls into one of these categories to help expedite the process. Clear, thorough documentation and direct communication with Ofsted are key.

In 2021, it took an average of 17 weeks for an application to be processed from acceptance to registration. However, applications withdrawn or delayed averaged an additional 6 weeks.

Currently, for priority applications, Ofsted aims to reach a decision within 3 to 6 months, though some may take longer if additional information is required. Non-priority applications may take 6 to 18 months due to the volume of cases.

To avoid delays, ensure that your application is complete and meets the necessary criteria for prioritisation.

To ensure your application is processed swiftly, follow these steps:

• Submit Correct Documentation: Include all necessary documents, such as the Statement of Purpose, safeguarding policies, and children’s guide. If not all documents are ready, you can submit a self-declaration and local authority confirmation to avoid delays.
• Notify Ofsted Early: Inform your Senior HMI or Regulatory Inspection Manager (RIM) as soon as you intend to apply. Ensure the local authority confirms the urgent nature of the placement.
• Prepare for Additional Information: Be ready to provide extra documents, such as the manager’s SC2 form or safeguarding reports, if requested.

Once your application is submitted:

• Confirm Submission: Email [email protected] to ensure your application is logged.
• Inspection: An inspector will guide you through the process, checking staff, documentation, and premises. Ensure your proposed manager and responsible individual are approved.
• Manager’s SC2 Form: In some priority cases, Ofsted may accept applications without a named proposed manager if:
  • A DoL order has been authorised, or
  • Local authorities are accommodating unaccompanied asylum-seeking children, or
  • The child is in an unregistered home.

If the SC2 form isn’t submitted within 12 weeks, the application may be closed, and fees will not be refunded.

If your application doesn’t meet standards, Ofsted will work with you to resolve issues, but failure to comply with regulatory requirements means registration can’t be granted.

• Prepare Early: Have key documents ready to avoid delays.
• Stay in Contact with Ofsted: Reach out to the Senior HMI to confirm your application meets priority criteria and for guidance on required documents.
• Clarify the Urgency: Ensure you provide clear evidence of any urgent need, such as a DoL order or emergency placement.

At RWK Goodman, we are committed to supporting children’s homes through the complex registration process. If you need assistance or have questions, feel free to contact me directly.

Together, we can help ensure vulnerable children and young people receive the care and support they deserve.