How to Open a Children’s Home: A Step-by-Step Guide for Aspirational Care Providers

Figuring out how to open a children’s home is one of the most impactful decisions you can make as a care provider. With a rising number of vulnerable young people in need of safe, supportive environments, the demand for high-quality children’s residential care has never been greater. However, navigating the regulatory process and setting up a compliant, sustainable service can be complex. 

At Delphi Care Solutions, we specialise in helping new and experienced providers successfully launch Ofsted regulated children’s homes, guiding them through every stage. From planning and registration to operation and inspection readiness. 

How to Open a Children’s Care Home and Why Start Now?

The UK care system is under pressure. Family breakdowns, trauma, mental health needs, and socio-economic challenges are increasing referrals to care. Local authorities are struggling to find enough suitable placements, particularly for older children and those with complex needs. 

Starting a care home for children is more than a business opportunity – it’s a chance to: 

• Make a meaningful difference in young lives
• Respond to a growing societal need
• Build a sustainable, purpose-driven organisation 
• Contribute to the improvement of national children’s care services

Step 1: Understand Ofsted Requirements

All children’s homes in England must be registered with Ofsted, which regulates standards for safety, care quality, leadership, and outcomes. Whether you’re planning supported living for children or full-time care, you’ll need to demonstrate full compliance with: 

• Children’s Homes (England) Regulations 2015
• The Quality Standards
• Safeguarding legislation and safer recruitment practices
• Appropriate qualifications and experience in your team

Step 2: Develop a Robust Care and Business Model

To gain registration and run a successful home, you need a clearly defined care model and operational structure. This includes: 

• A strong Statement of Purpose
• Policies and procedures for safeguarding, behaviour management, and daily routines 
• Staff recruitment, qualifications, and training plans
• Clear financial planning to ensure sustainability

At Delphi Care Solutions, we support providers in shaping care models that are not only compliant but also effective in delivering real outcomes for children. 

Step 3: Find and Prepare Your Property

The registration process is detailed and requires careful preparation. You will need to: 

• A safe, welcoming environment with adequate private and communal space
• Located in a secure area, ideally near schools, services, and transport links
• Equipped with safety measures like fire exits, alarms, and secure access

We help you assess properties for their suitability, advise on any adaptations needed, and ensure your building meets the requirements for Ofsted regulated children’s homes. 

HCR Law have developed a list of key considerations for locations assessments which you may find useful to review.

Step 4: Register with Ofsted

The registration process is detailed and requires careful preparation. You will need to: 

• Complete the online application 
• Appoint a Responsible Individual and a Registered Manager
• Submit supporting documentation, including your care model, policies, and staff structure
• Prepare for an interview and possible site inspection

Delphi Care Solutions offers a full registration support package, ensuring you meet all regulatory expectations and avoid costly delays. 

Step 5: Build and Train Your Team

Staffing is one of the most critical components in starting a care home for children. Your team must be qualified, experienced, and trained in trauma-informed care. 

You’ll need: 

• A Registered Manager with a Level 5 Leadership qualification
• Residential Support Workers with relevant experience or training
• A plan for induction, supervision, and continuous professional development

We provide guidance on safer recruitment, compliance, and workforce planning. 

Step 6: Prepare to Launch

Once registered, you’ll be ready to accept placements. But there’s more to consider before opening: 

• Care and placement planning systems
• Local authority engagement for referrals
• Record-keeping and compliance processes
• Internal monitoring and quality assurance

Delphi supports you not just at launch, but through your ongoing journey as a provider of high-quality children’s care services. 

Delphi Care Solutions: Your Partner in Opening a Children’s Home

At Delphi, we understand the challenges of starting a care home for children, and we know how to overcome them. We’ve supported dozens of providers through the process of launching Ofsted children’s services, from initial concept to operational success. 

Our services include: 

• Property and premises assessments
• Full registration support with Ofsted
• Policy and procedure development
• Mock inspections and ongoing compliance checks
• Business and operational planning

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Whether you’re looking to open a children’s home for the first time or expand your care offerings, Delphi Care Solutions is here to help. 

Contact us today to find out how we can support you in starting a care home for children and delivering the high-quality, regulated care young people need and deserve.