House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement
Children's Homes Update
28 June 2022 · Department for Education
Proposed by Will Quince Con Colchester
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
At a glance
Key points
- Ofsted has accelerated inspections of Calcot's homes and schools, imposing restrictions on the number of children some can care for.
- The government is working to ensure compliance with Independent School Standards and is considering enforcement actions if necessary.
- A national review into safeguarding children with disabilities in residential settings is underway.
Issue summary
The statement addresses whistleblowing allegations made against Calcot Services for Children regarding abuse and safeguarding failures in children's homes.
Action requested
Ofsted has accelerated inspections of Calcot’s homes and schools, with some receiving restrictions on the number of children they can care for. The government is working to ensure compliance with Independent School Standards and considering enforcement actions if necessary. A national review into safeguarding children with disabilities in residential settings is underway.
Key facts
- Calcot runs 8 children’s homes and 3 independent schools in Reading.
- Ofsted has issued a home with compliance notices, rating it as inadequate.
- Three further homes have had restrictions imposed limiting the number of children they can care for.
- The department is working to ensure that independent schools meet all Independent School Standards at all times.