Supported Accommodation 16-18 Regulations
Since April 2023, all supported accommodation for 16-17 year olds requires Ofsted registration under the Supported Accommodation (England) Regulations 2023 (SHROA). Unregistered provision is a criminal offence. This guide covers the registration requirements, quality standards, inspection framework and audit checkpoints for supported accommodation providers.
SHROA 2023 Registration & Quality Standards
The Supported Accommodation Regulations 2023 established minimum quality standards for 16-17 year olds in supported accommodation. Ofsted registration is mandatory and inspections follow a modified SCCIF framework focused on outcomes, safeguarding and transition to independence.
Critical Audit Checkpoints
- Ofsted registration: application, Fit Person interview, premises assessment before admitting young people
- Statement of Purpose: must detail accommodation type, staffing, support model, referral criteria
- Regulation 23 (quality of support): evidencing education, health, independence outcomes
- Regulation 24 (safeguarding): missing episodes, exploitation risk, contextual safeguarding protocols
- Regulation 26 (staff fitness): DBS, qualifications, care experience minimum requirements
- Regulation 27 (staff training): specific training on exploitation, County Lines, modern slavery
Inspection Preparation for Supported Accommodation
Ofsted inspects supported accommodation using a modified SCCIF framework. Initial inspections occur within 12-18 months of registration. The focus is on safeguarding effectiveness, quality of support and leadership — with particular attention to transition planning and independence outcomes.
Critical Audit Checkpoints
- Pathway plans: evidence young people involved in planning their future, reviewed regularly
- Independence skills programme: cooking, budgeting, tenancy management documented
- Education, Employment and Training (EET): 100% engagement target, barriers documented and addressed
- Missing episodes: return home interview within 72 hours, exploitation risk reassessed
- Transition planning: move-on accommodation identified 3+ months before 18th birthday
- Local authority placement review attendance and contributions documented
Frequently Asked Questions
When did supported accommodation for 16-17 year olds require Ofsted registration?
Ofsted registration became mandatory from 28 October 2023 for all new providers. Existing providers had a transitional period. Operating unregistered supported accommodation for 16-17 year olds is now a criminal offence.
What is SHROA 2023?
SHROA stands for Supported Housing (Regulatory Oversight) Act 2023 / Supported Accommodation (England) Regulations 2023. It established Ofsted as the regulator of supported accommodation for 16-17 year olds with minimum quality and safeguarding standards.
How does Ofsted inspect supported accommodation?
Ofsted uses a modified SCCIF framework focusing on quality of support, safeguarding effectiveness and leadership. Inspectors review case files, interview young people and staff, observe practice and check compliance with the 2023 Regulations.
Further Reading
Related Resources
Supported Accommodation Templates
SHROA 2023-aligned audit templates for supported accommodation providers.
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