Greater Manchester has been selected as one of two national pathfinders to spearhead reforms in residential care provision for vulnerable children and young people across the city-region
The goal is to keep more cared-for children in Greater Manchester children close to their support networks, reduce the strain on local authority budgets, and support the government in its crackdown on excessive private sector profits.
This project aims to create at least ten new children’s homes in the city-region, carefully designed to support children with complex mental health needs, those at risk of exploitation, and those awaiting foster care placements. With the first property in Bury secured and four more in progress, Skyline will begin welcoming children in early 2025.
Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, said: “What we’re increasingly seeing is central government coming to Greater Manchester as their partner of choice to tackle these knotty, complex challenges.
“Central to our approach here is putting children and young people themselves at the centre of how we design and shape this work. We recognise that when things go wrong in a young person’s life, it’s rarely about just one thing.
“This is a complicated issue and we are offering a groundbreaking solution in providing stable, loving homes for our children and young people. This marks the start of a step-change in children’s care, one that ensures every child in Greater Manchester has the support they need to thrive.”
Only last week, central government pledged to crack down on exploitative care providers making excessive profits from the provision of care for vulnerable young people. With 6,105 children and young people in care across the city-region and rising costs associated with the current system, this also marks a major step in supporting the government’s commitment to reducing excessive private sector profits in children’s care.
This approach addresses the national shortage of homes that can lead to children being placed far from their communities, which creates instability and financial strain on councils. By prioritising collaboration with local authorities, health services, and community partners, Greater Manchester is showcasing a shift in how children’s care is delivered.
