Registered Supported Accommodation provisions
We provide confidential Ofsted registration support for supported accommodation providers catering for 16 to 18 years olds. This has previously been an unregulated supported accommodation sector that has seen a high demand over the years.
Before Ofsted registration and these new standards, delivery of supported accommodation for 16 to 18 year olds depended on the individual standards set by each local authority. Ofsted registration for supported accommodation has encouraged standardisation coming in line with their other regulatory duties. Providers can either be individuals, partnerships or an organisation.
Ofsted registration for supported accommodation can be under any of the following categories:
• Single occupancy (Supported accommodation in a self-contained unit).
• Ring Fenced shared accommodation (Supported accommodation in a shared or group living situation in premises which are not limited to accommodating looked after children and care leavers).
• Shared accommodation - non-ring-fenced (Supported accommodation in a shared or group living situation in premises which are not limited to accommodating looked after children and care leavers).
• Accommodation in a private residence, such as supported lodgings.
Ofsted Registration for supported accommodation Requirements
These new Ofsted registration for supported accommodation standards have not only provided clarity for providers but commissioners, individuals receiving services, their families, professionals and others. You will need a government gateway account in order to access the registration forms.
Registration with Ofsted for supported accommodation business requires completion of two application forms. The first Form is SC1 which is for the provider. The second form is the SC2 which is for the registered manager. It is possible for two people to share registration for the registered manager position.
Each organisation should have a named nominated individual who is also expected to form SC2. You will be expected to provide proof of financial viability and the following evidence (policies, procedures and statments):
• Business Plan
• Insurance
• Statement of Purpose
• Young Person Guide
• Equality and Diversity Policy
• Safeguarding Policy
• Complaints Policy
• Missing Child Policy
• Behaviour Management Policy
• Contingency Policy
Similarities between Ofsted and CQC Registration Requirements
The registration framework is now similar to CQC requirements but appears stricter in terms of the power Ofsted retains when it comes to providers wishing to withdrawing applications. Applicants in certain situations will need to seek permission to withdraw their applications from Ofsted.
The procedures and timescales for representations when an application is denied are similar.
While the CQC does not state the impact of any applications with them Ofsted clearly state that they might take into consideration the history of individuals when it comes to any future application. Individuals barred will not be allowed to work in any regulated childcare sector.
Payment for registration is on application for Ofsted registration while with the CQC it is some time after registration. The fees for Ofsted currently stand at a total £4500 (£3600 for providers with up to 10 premises and £900 for the registered manager). Providers with over 10 premises will pay a total £5500 (£4600 for the provider and £900 for the registered manager).
Procedure for Ofsted registration for supported accommodation and expected time scales.
Registration with Ofsted for supported accommodation is made up of three stages. The stage is the completion and submission of application and supporting evidence. Completion and payment of all registration fee will result with your application being considered complete. This is the minimum stage you need to aim to have achieved by 28 October 2013 in order to complete operating legally.
The second stage will involve checks with all the local authorities you have been under for the past five years. The primary purpose of the checks is to see if you have been subject to any child protection procedures. This is also the stage where your DBS is checked. Ofsted reserves the right to see references from other professionals such as your GP and any person who can shed light about you.
The last third stage involves the fit person interview. A pre-interview questionnaire will need to be completed by the registered manager. Ofsted reserves the right to interview anyone who completes the SC2 form including nominated individuals and directors.
Currently Ofsted aims to assess forms SC1 and SC2 within five working days. They will then aim to visit your premises within 40 working days for the fitness person interview when all checks and references have been received.