Meeting the Need: Why Moving into Ofsted-Regulated Children’s Services Matters More Than Ever

As the demand for Ofsted-regulated children’s services and supported living for children continues to grow, the gap between the number of vulnerable children and the services available to support them is becoming increasingly urgent. At Delphi Care, we believe that now is the time for experienced care providers, investors, and stakeholders to seriously consider stepping into the world of Ofsted regulated children’s homes. 

The Growing Demand for Ofsted-regulated Children’s Services

Approximately 33,000 children entered care in England between 2023 and 2024, equating to one child entering care every 16 minutes.* 

Across the UK, more children than ever before are being referred into care. Rising mental health challenges, family breakdowns, abuse, neglect, and increasing socio-economic pressures have contributed to a significant increase in the number of children needing safe, stable, and supportive environments. According to recent data, there are simply not enough high-quality children’s residential care placements available to meet this growing demand. 

This shortfall isn’t just a logistical challenge. It’s a social crisis. When children don’t have access to the right type of care, their emotional, educational, and psychological development can suffer. Early intervention and consistent, compassionate care can be the difference between a life of potential and one of prolonged struggle. 

The Role of Ofsted-Regulated Children’s Homes

Ofsted regulated children’s homes play a critical role in ensuring quality, safety, and outcomes in children’s care services. These homes are inspected and held to the highest standards, providing structured, nurturing environments that prioritise each child’s wellbeing. For providers entering this space, working within the framework of Ofsted-regulated children’s services isn’t just a legal requirement. It’s a commitment to continuous improvement, accountability, and life-changing outcomes for the children we support. 

Why Care Providers Should Make the Move

At Delphi Care, we have seen first-hand the transformative impact that professional, compassionate care can have on young lives. Here’s why now is the right time to consider starting a care home for children or expanding your existing care model: 

• Unmet Needs: The system urgently needs more providers to open children’s homes and supported living for children’s placements. The demand is outstripping supply at an alarming rate. 
• Meaningful Impact: Few sectors offer the opportunity to make such a lasting difference in a young person’s life. 
• Sustainable Demand: Unlike some care sectors, the need for children’s residential care is not cyclical. It is steadily growing.
• Funding & Support: Local authorities are actively seeking partnerships with providers who can deliver compliant, high-quality Ofsted regulated children’s homes. With the right model in place, there is a clear path to operational and financial sustainability.

Our Commitment at Delphi Care

At Delphi Care, we are committed to being part of the solution. We offer comprehensive consultancy services to help you start a children’s home, including: 

• Regulatory guidance on how to open a children’s home
• Compliance support aligned with Ofsted children’s services requirements
• Operational planning and business modelling for children’s residential care settings
• Ongoing training and quality assurance for sustainable care delivery

Our mission is rooted in the belief that every child deserves a chance to thrive in a safe, supportive environment. By increasing the number of high-quality, Ofsted regulated children’s homes, we can help close the current gap and ensure that no child is left without the care they deserve. 

Join Us in Making a Difference

If you’re a care provider, investor, or entrepreneur with a passion for helping young people, now is the time to act. Whether you’re exploring how to open a children’s home or expanding your existing care model, Delphi Care can guide you every step of the way. 

Contact us today to find out how we can support your journey into Ofsted regulated children’s homes and make a lasting impact through high-quality children’s care services. 

_{* Gov.uk – https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/children-looked-after-in-england-including-adoption-2023-to-2024}