Story perspectives

England's Child Care Crisis: 370% Rise in Unregulated Homes

4/20/2026

Summary

Story summary

A report by England's children's commissioner describes a national scandal in child social care, citing a 370% rise in unregulated placements over five years.
As of September 1, 2025, 669 children were in unregistered homes.
The children's minister announced new laws to combat illegal care homes.
The Public Accounts Committee described the care market as dysfunctional and noted that no prosecutions of unregistered providers have occurred, and Ofsted is addressing the issue.

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Story summary

A report by England's children's commissioner describes a national scandal in child social care, citing a 370% rise in unregulated placements over five years.
As of September 1, 2025, 669 children were in unregistered homes.
The children's minister announced new laws to combat illegal care homes.
The Public Accounts Committee described the care market as dysfunctional and noted that no prosecutions of unregistered providers have occurred, and Ofsted is addressing the issue.