Government responds to our safeguarding disabled children review
A statement from the panel following the government's response to 'Safeguarding children with disabilities in residential settings'.
Our national review into the harm and abuse perpetrated against over 100 children, with complex health needs and disabilities, in residential settings in Doncaster, highlighted the need for the voices of children to be heard. It was clear about the changes that are required in provision, commissioning, and regulation to meet their needs.
We are pleased that the Secretary of State for Education and Secretary of State for Health and Social Care have now published a comprehensive response to our recommendations. It is important that these departments continue to work together, with children and families, local authorities, integrated care boards, regulators, and providers of residential care to secure the changes that are essential to keep children safe.
We also welcome government’s letters to commissioners, providers and regulators setting out expectations about the work they now need to undertake. The importance of strong and effective leadership, across all these areas, cannot be under-estimated.
We support government’s aspirations to address some of the system problems identified in our review, though it is disappointing that 7 of our 9 recommendations are accepted in principle only. The proposed six-month review of progress will therefore be important in evaluating how well change is achieved.
It is vital that the proposed changes enable parents and children to be assured that, wherever their children are living, they receive the highest quality care and protection. We look forward to our continued engagement with government and all stakeholders to bring about the required transformation in how agencies work with children with disabilities and complex health needs, and their families to thrive and enjoy their lives.
General enquiries
Child Safeguarding Practice Review Panel
Department for Education
Sanctuary Buildings
Great Smith Street
London
SW1P 3BT
Please use this address for all enquiries, including media enquiries.