Ancora Children’s Homes Limited v Ofsted

Facts

Ancora Children's Homes Limited operated a children's home first registered with Ofsted in October 2023 to care for children of either gender with emotional and social difficulties and learning disabilities. In late March 2026 the Local Authority Designated Officer notified Ofsted of safeguarding allegations concerning staff at the home, and Ofsted was told of a police investigation. In mid-April 2026 the appellant received notice of the allegations and suspended the individuals named; at an allegation management meeting arranged by the LADO the police confirmed an active investigation and the Responsible Individual, Wendy Edward-Tsuro, confirmed that all staff at the home had been suspended. The Registered Manager was suspended shortly afterwards. Ofsted inspected the home on 2 and 3 June 2026 and identified shortfalls including the absence of staff or management arrangements, failures to meet children's individual needs in relation to assessments, and inconsistent staffing levels. On 9 June 2026 Ofsted issued a Notice of Suspension, said to be given under sections 14A and 20B of the Care Standards Act 2000, suspending the registration for 12 weeks until 31 August 2026. The appellant commenced this appeal on 26 June 2026, contending that the threshold was not met and that suspension was disproportionate.