Unregistered Care Homes : A Growing Threat to At-Risk Children

Unregistered children’s homes in the UK are reportedly making big profits from vulnerable youths, charging up to £20,000 a week while not providing proper care. This serious issue came to light in a recent family court hearing in Liverpool. A judge pointed out that local authorities often have to place children in these unregistered homes because there aren’t enough safe options available.

One case involved a 14-year-old boy, known as Jack, who was placed in an unregistered home even though the local authority was paying £16,000. Jack showed violent behavior and often ran away, which raised major safety concerns. The costs for children’s care have jumped from £7.5 million to an estimated £16 million over three years, putting the council’s finances at risk.

Judge Stephen Parker criticized the system, saying that local authorities are “at the mercy of the private sector.” He stressed the need for urgent action against unregulated homes, which often lack trained staff and proper oversight. Ofsted has also raised these concerns, calling for immediate changes to protect at-risk children from harm and exploitation.

Written by Alice Njoki.

Source: BBC