Our national investigation into harm and abuse perpetrated against over 100 children with complex health needs and disabilities in Doncaster residential care highlighted the need to listen to children’s voices – it was clear that changes in provision, commissioning and regulation were needed to meet children’s needs.
We are pleased that the Minister for Education and the Minister for Health and Social Care have published comprehensive responses to our recommendations. It is vital that these departments continue to work with children and families, local authorities, integrated care boards, regulators and residential care providers to ensure that essential changes are implemented to keep children safe.
We also welcome the Government’s letter to commissioners, providers and regulators setting out their expectations regarding the work that now needs to be undertaken. The importance of strong and effective leadership in all these areas should never be underestimated.
“We support the Government’s ambitions to address some of the systemic issues identified in our review, but it is disappointing that only seven of our nine recommendations have been accepted in principle. The proposed six-monthly progress reviews will therefore be important in assessing the extent to which change has been achieved.”
It is vital that the proposed changes ensure parents and children have the highest quality care and protection, wherever a child lives. We look forward to continuing to work with the Government and all stakeholders to deliver the changes needed in the way agencies work to enable children with disabilities and complex health needs and their families to thrive and enjoy life.