Local authorities have handed responsibility for many vulnerable children to voracious private equity firms. The consequences are catastrophic. 1/
Ofsted has just published an inspection report into a home for children in care owned by Radical Services Ltd, a subsidiary of the private equity firm Ardenton Capital.
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It is judged inadequate by every measure. 
Serious and widespread failures. Children are not protected. Care and experiences are poor.
Food is a significant concern. Some children binge on junk, others go for long periods without eating.
Bullying is rife and children do not feel safe.
"Children appear to be beyond the control of staff."
The Ofsted inspection report is here
reports.ofsted.gov.uk/provider/2/124…
When you read it, please bear in mind that this is a place children who have been removed from their families for their safety, are meant to think of as 'home'.
reports.ofsted.gov.uk/provider/2/124…
When you read it, please bear in mind that this is a place children who have been removed from their families for their safety, are meant to think of as 'home'.
Private companies, particularly private equity, have no concern for the welfare of children beyond what they must do to cash the next cheque.
But local authorities know what they are sending children to; this is happening with their full knowledge and consent.
Five children's homes and one foster care agency have been rated 'inadequate' or 'requires improvement to be good' by Ofsted today. All are privately owned.
Ardenton's gross margin is almost 33%.
It has more than £1 million in the bank.
It has more than £1 million in the bank.
A *lot* of leaders of children's services have staked their careers and reputations on this being a sensible and sustainable model of care.
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