Cost of children's homes doubles but care can be poor, says report

The report by the spending watchdog in England has found that the cost of children's residential care has doubled in the past decade, but the quality of care provided can be poor. The report highlights that the huge sums spent on this sector do not represent value for money. The report reveals that the number of children in residential care has remained relatively stable, yet the costs have soared, with the average weekly cost per child increasing from £2,900 in 2008-09 to £4,800 in 2018-19. The report also notes that the care provided can be of poor quality, with some children experiencing instability, inadequate support, and even abuse. The report calls for a comprehensive review of the children's social care system, including the use of residential care, to ensure that the needs of vulnerable children are being met effectively and efficiently. It emphasizes the importance of improving the quality of care and ensuring that the significant public investment in this sector delivers better outcomes for children.