After reading the latest publications from Ofsted alongside commentary from the Children’s Homes Association, it’s clear there is a lot of tension between rapid growth in provision and the ongoing struggle to find suitable placements for the children who need the most support. This post shares a brief reflection on what those documents reveal, andContinue reading “Reimagining Children’s Residential: From Crisis Management to Strategic System Design”
Category Archives: Professional Activity
From Rigid Labels to Flexible Care Interventions
The language and terminology used in residential children’s services significantly impact practice and perceptions. Traditionally, distinctions have been made between “care” in children’s homes and “support” in supported accommodation. However, this binary classification often oversimplifies the reality of service delivery and fails to reflect the continuum of care needed by young people as they transitionContinue reading “From Rigid Labels to Flexible Care Interventions”
[010.23] The Social Sciences ADNetwork
Yesterday, I had the opportunity to share some news about my participation in the creation of a Supported Accommodation Providers Association. Today, I wanted to share something else that I am also involved with and that is creating a lot of excitement. The Social Sciences ADNetwork. The SSADNetwork is a network to foster collaboration, knowledgeContinue reading “[010.23] The Social Sciences ADNetwork”
[009.23] Supported Accommodation Association
As many of you may know, my passion and commitment to supporting individuals in care and care leavers have been the driving forces behind my journey in the realm of supported accommodation. I’ve always believed that collective action and collaboration can lead to transformative change, and I’m excited to share with you a significant chapterContinue reading “[009.23] Supported Accommodation Association”
[006.23] Supported Accommodation Providers Forum
I had the opportunity to share my thoughts about the impact that the new regulations will have on our practice, as well as some thoughts regarding what is allowed and not allowed within the regulations including, and opposite to what I keep reading, the fact that we “can” care for the young people we work with.
[001.23] Preparing for the new Supported Accommodation Regulations
On the 19th of April, I had the honor of presenting at the FEVACA Conference on Supported Accommodation, where I delivered a communication highlighting how FEVACA has diligently prepared for the new regulations. It was an invaluable opportunity to share insights, strategies, and best practices in navigating the evolving landscape of supported accommodation. During myContinue reading “[001.23] Preparing for the new Supported Accommodation Regulations”
[006.22] Is OFSTED fit for purpose?
OFSTED is struggling with the lack of (experienced) inspectors, facing a situation where inspectors are leaving to other organizations and some due to their age. To make things worse, we are now expecting the minimum standards for supported accommodation, meaning that the number of inspectors needed will increase even more. I also believe that the current inspection framework is outdated and should be restructured together with the necessary changes to accommodate the new supported accommodation provisions and the changes that will potentially arise from the Children’s Social Care Review.
Miguel Valerio 