Children's homesData
Children's homes up 20% in a year to 4,800, with 85% privately owned
Published 27 October 2026 ยท Drafted with AI, checked by an editor
Ofsted's annual statistics show the sector growing fast. Registered places rose 11% to 17,500.
What changedOfsted published its Children's social care in England 2026 statistics, covering the position at 31 March 2026.Who it affectsChildren's home providers, commissioners and investors.What to doNo action. Use the figures to benchmark your area in our inspection tracker.Key datesPublished 30 July 2026. Figures at 31 March 2026.
There were 4,800 children's homes of all types, up 20% (800) on the previous year and 67% since March 2022. Registered places rose 11% to 17,500.
85% of children's homes are privately owned. Of full inspections, 81% judged help and protection good or outstanding and 74% judged leadership and management good or outstanding.
Original source
Main findings: children's social care in England 2026 (GOV.UK)
Spotted an error? Tell us and we will correct it within one working day.
Main findings: children's social care in England 2026 (GOV.UK)
Spotted an error? Tell us and we will correct it within one working day.