The Supported Accommodation Regulations have been recently published (late last month), marking a significant milestone in residential children’s care, and it has created a buzz in the “world” of residential care for children and young people. These regulations are specifically designed to address the care and support provided to individuals aged 16 and above residing in supported accommodation settings. This groundbreaking publication signifies a commitment to safeguarding vulnerable young individuals and promoting their journey towards independence within a safe and nurturing environment.
One prevailing misconception that is important to clarify is the belief that supported accommodation settings do not provide adequate care. Until April 2023, and included in Ofsted guidance, there was a document that intended to explain where, depending on their needs and level of support, a child could be in Supported Accommodation or when the child should be in a Residential Children’s Home. Unfortunately, the informal title given to this document was “Care v. Support”. However, With the introduction of the Supported Accommodation Regulations, this notion is now firmly challenged. The regulations prioritize the provision of comprehensive care and support tailored to the unique needs of each young individual in residential settings.
Parallel to the regulations governing Children’s Homes, the Supported Accommodation Regulations emphasize the importance of thorough risk assessments. Just as Children’s Homes assess and mitigate potential risks to children, supported accommodation providers are now required to implement rigorous risk assessment procedures. This ensures that appropriate measures are in place to address any identified risks and safeguard the well-being of young residents, further reinforcing the commitment to providing quality care in residential settings.
Furthermore, both regulatory frameworks recognize the significance of well-trained and qualified staff members. In Children’s Homes, a competent and compassionate team is essential for catering to the specific needs of children. Similarly, supported accommodation providers are mandated under the new regulations to employ skilled staff who possess the necessary knowledge and expertise to deliver exceptional care and support to young individuals in residential settings. This affirmation dispels any doubts regarding the provision of care available in supported accommodation, underscoring the commitment to promoting the well-being of children and young people. It is now “accepted” that care can be provided in Supported Accommodation and that (finally!!!) it is impossible to legally define what care is.
In reality, even before these new regulations, not being able to provide care, did not mean that Supported Accommodation settings could not provide a caring approach, or support, being the “forbidden” care mostly associated with control of the child residing in those homes (i.e. not allowing a child to leave the home). It is now time to stop with the false correlation between Supported Accommodation and no provision of care.
To ensure accountability and maintain quality standards, the Supported Accommodation Regulations also establish robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms. Just as Children’s Homes undergo regular inspections to assess compliance with established standards, supported accommodation settings will be subject to stringent monitoring processes. This fosters a culture of continuous improvement and guarantees that young residents in residential care receive the care and support they deserve on their path toward independence. Yes, there are aspects that might need to change and monitoring and inspection to be more robust (I have presented some ideas for changes on the regulatory framework before), but this is a huge step in the right direction.
It is time to stay informed, debunk misconceptions, and foster a culture of care, protection, and support for children and young people in residential settings, and embrace the opportunities presented by these regulations to create a brighter future for vulnerable children and young people.
Miguel Valerio 