We are seeking views on our proposal to extend or amend a limited number of flexibilities within the Adoption and Children (Coronavirus) (Amendment) (No'.2) Regulations 2020, in relation to Medical Reports, Virtual Visits and Ofsted Inspections.
The government’s overriding objective in any amendments to the statutory framework is to enable the most effective support and protection to children and their families, by local authorities, local safeguarding partners and regulated services, within the statutory framework.
On 24 April, the Adoption and Children (Coronavirus) (Amendment) Regulations 2020 came into force to provide local authorities (LAs) and children’s social care providers with temporary flexibilities to support them during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. In August 2020 we consulted on whether to continue some of the flexibilities in the children’s social care sector that came into effect in April. These were in relation to the stage of the respective approvals process for adopters and foster carers that the medical reports would be needed, virtual visits/contacts and Ofsted inspection intervals. Following the consultation, a further set of regulations were laid. These are due to elapse 31 March 2021.
Given the continued impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, we are now consulting on a proposal to extend or amend those regulations and we are inviting interested individuals and organisations to comment on our plans.
Share
Share on Twitter Share on Facebook