Children’s homes research: phase 3

Research Report

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Phase 3 of the Children’s Homes Evaluation project builds on the findings from two previous phases of research. Following the publication of the Children’s Homes Regulations and Quality Standards that came into effect in April 2015, it was agreed that the final phase of research would focus specifically on understanding and supporting the effective implementation of these new regulations. Phase 3 involved a consultation with stakeholders about the skills, knowledge and qualifications of children’s home managers and staff and the impact of the children’s homes regulations.

A specific focus of the phase 3 study was on one of the regulations, the Leadership and Management Standard, that specifically requires:

…the registered person enables, inspires and leads a culture in relation to the children’s home that, (a) helps children aspire to fulfil their potential; and (b) promotes their welfare.

While this Standard does not necessitate a change of skills among children’s home managers per se, it does provide them with a clear framework within which to take leadership of their provision. It was therefore considered useful for this final phase of research – conducted 8-10 months following the publication of the regulations - to explore the impact of the regulations. Specifically, the aims of this research were to:

• Explore the expectations in relation to the implementation and impact of the new regulations;

• Understand the impact of the new regulations on strategic management, staff operations and children themselves; and,

• Explore views on qualifications, pay and routes in/out of the residential care sector.