Croydon Council cancels contract despite 'Good' Ofsted rating

Croydon Council has cancelled a seven-year contract with St Christopher's Fellowship for a children's home, a decision that has been met with contradiction from Ofsted inspectors. The contract, valued at a total of £8.57 million, was terminated by the council citing concerns that children were being placed in situations leading to placement breakdowns and hospital admissions. The home, which opened in April this year, was established as part of Mayor Jason Perry's plan to reduce costs by avoiding private provider charges.

Ofsted findings contrast with council's assessment

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An Ofsted inspection conducted on September 3 and 4 awarded the children's home an overall rating of 'Good'. This assessment contradicts the council's report, which suggested management issues and stated the home had not had a registered manager since its commencement. The Ofsted report, made public on October 12, explicitly states that the home and its manager registered with Ofsted in March 2026 and that this was the home's first inspection. Inspectors rated the overall experiences and progress of children and young people as 'Good', as well as how well they are helped and protected, and the effectiveness of leaders and managers.

The inspection report details how staff support children in pursuing interests and engaging in learning, with one child securing a place in further education. It also highlights the positive relationships children have with staff, who create a welcoming environment and encourage individuality. Parents have provided positive feedback regarding communication and care. The report notes that staff have a good understanding of children's risks and vulnerabilities, working with professionals to develop safety plans. Children's health needs are addressed well, though a medication recording error was identified, leading to practice improvements.

Contract termination and future plans

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The council's report, which led to the intention to terminate the contract, mentioned 'hospitalisations'. While the Ofsted report acknowledges a recent medication recording error, it also states that the registered manager works collaboratively with partner agencies to ensure plans remain focused on children's needs. St Christopher's Fellowship has reportedly rejected many of the council's criticisms as unfounded. Croydon Council is now undertaking a new procurement process to find replacement managers for the children's home.