Amendments

This chapter was refreshed in June 2024.

In June 2024, definitions were updated in line with revised Working Together to Safeguard Children.

In June 2024, a link was added in the Further Information section to Ofsted Guidance Children's Homes that Provide Care and Accommodation for Adults.

In June 2024, minor amendments were made to definitions in line with Working Together to Safeguard Children.

In June 2024, information was added to reflect the reclassification of nitrous oxide as a Class C drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 (as amended).

In December 2023, a new section was added on Other Harmful Practices. The Health and Care Act 2022 has made it illegal to carry out, offer or aid and abet virginity testing or hymenoplasty in any part of the UK. It is also illegal for UK nationals and residents to do these things outside the UK. Information has also been added on Breast Flattening which is an offence as set out in CPS So-Called Honour-Based Abuse Legal Guidance.

This chapter was refreshed in December 2023 and additional links were added into Further Information.

This chapter was updated in December 2023.

Section 2.3, Appointment of Manager was updated in December 2023 in line with the updated Ofsted Guidance - Social Care Common Inspection Framework: Children’s Homes.

In December 2023, new subsections were added into Section 2, Safe Recruitment and Employment Checks, on Prospective Staff Spending Time in the Home and Carrying Out Interviews, in line with updated Ofsted guidance.

A link to DBS Digital Identity Verification Guidance was also added.