Our national review into
the harm and abuse perpetrated against over 100 children, with
complex health needs and disabilities, in residential settings in
Doncaster, highlighted the need for the voices of children to be
heard. It was clear about the changes that are required in
provision, commissioning, and regulation to meet their needs.
We are pleased that the Secretary of State for Education and
Secretary of State for Health and Social Care have now published
a comprehensive response to our
recommendations. It is important that these departments
continue to work together, with children and families, local
authorities, integrated care boards, regulators, and providers of
residential care to secure the changes that are essential to keep
children safe.
We also welcome government’s letters to commissioners, providers
and regulators setting out expectations about the work they now
need to undertake. The importance of strong and effective
leadership, across all these areas, cannot be
under-estimated.
We support government’s aspirations to address some of the system
problems identified in our review, though it is disappointing
that 7 of our 9 recommendations are accepted in principle
only. The proposed six-month review of progress will
therefore be important in evaluating how well change is achieved.
It is vital that the proposed changes enable parents and children
to be assured that, wherever their children are living, they
receive the highest quality care and protection. We look
forward to our continued engagement with government and all
stakeholders to bring about the required transformation in how
agencies work with children with disabilities and complex health
needs, and their families to thrive and enjoy their lives
