Under-16s spared unregulated care homes amid abuse fears

 Under-16s will no longer be placed in unregulated care homes, under new Government proposals as the Education Secretary announced a crackdown.

The move comes amid rising concern about children who are left vulnerable to criminal or sexual exploitation while under local authority care. Under plans published in a consultation, the Government will make it illegal for children under 16 to be placed in such homes.

Gavin Williamson, the Education Secretary, said: “There are no circumstances where a child under 16 should be placed in accommodation that does not keep them safe.

“That is unacceptable and I am taking urgent action to end this practice and drive up the quality of care provided to all vulnerable children. Social workers and council chiefs have to make difficult decisions about the children in their care, so it’s important that we agree an ambitious approach to these important reforms to bring about lasting change in children’s social care.”

The Government intends to introduce “national standards” for unregulated accommodation housing cared for teenagers aged 16-18.