Regulators Oftsed today launched a consultation over proposals to establish a single inspection framework covering local authority child protection and services for vulnerable children.

As such, the planned framework would replace previous schemes to implement separate examinations for child protection and services for children looked after.

In terms of scope, it the inspections would cover services provided for children in need of help and protection, children looked after and those who are about to leave care of have already done so.

Additionally, Ofsted has launched two further consultations on good voluntary adoption provision and good independent fostering provision to evaluate the quality of services provided by voluntary and independent providers.

HMCI Sir Michael Wilshaw said: ‘Our inspections of these functions must get to the heart of how well children are helped, protected and looked after, and the difference this makes to their lives.

He added this new single inspection would permit Ofsted to inspect the whole system that helps, protects and looks after children. ‘I want those same children to have good lives when they leave the care of the state,' Sir Michael added.