Source · Select Committees · Public Accounts Committee
Recommendation 16
16
Not Addressed
Staffing shortages and lack of qualified managers hinder residential children's homes operation and capacity.
Conclusion
Homes require qualified staff to operate, including a registered manager, with staffing a significant issue for residential care providers.39 The Children’s Homes Association told us that staffing costs make up 60-80% of operating costs.40 The Children’s Commissioner told us that some providers react to taking children with complex needs by increasing staff numbers without evidence that it leads to better outcomes.41 In 2024, 13% of homes with unoccupied beds felt issues recruiting and retaining staff led to places being unfilled. At March 2025, 19% of children’s homes in England that were active or suspended did not have a registered manager in post.42 The Department acknowledged the challenge and the need for better training and skills, despite the residential care workforce growing from 39,000 in May 2023 to 46,000 in September 2024.43
Government Response Summary
The response simply restates the committee's conclusion from a different section.
Government Response
Not Addressed
HM Government
Not Addressed
3. PAC conclusion: Providers of children’s homes, including local authorities, are not offering the places needed locally, leading to children being placed in homes that do not meet their needs.