# Research Source: https://arccare.co.uk/research Last updated: 2026-10-27 ARC Research is published by Arc Care Systems Ltd, which sells ARC, a commercial recording product used by children's homes. That is worth knowing when you read our analysis. Every figure we publish comes from a named public dataset, our method and its limitations are set out in full alongside each report, and we link to the original source so you can check the work. ## Reports 2 publications [ REPORT Published 11 September 2026 ### Three or More Placement instability for children in care in England, 2021 to 2025 8,500 of the 81,770 children looked after in England on 31 March 2025 had three or more placements during the year, and 13,410 met the same threshold over a two-year window. The rate is highest among children looked after continuously for less than twelve months. Over that window, more children had three or more social workers than had three or more placements. Read the report → 8,500 Children with three or more placements in a year 23% Three or more placements over two years 53% Three or more social workers across two years Source: Department for Education · Analysis: ARC Research ](https://arccare.co.uk/research/placement-instability-2025) [ REPORT Published 13 August 2026 · Updated 23 October 2026 ### England's Children's Homes Ofsted Provider Data 2026 Ofsted's provider register lists 4,804 children's homes of all types, 795 more than a year earlier. Capacity grew more slowly than the number of homes, growth is concentrated in the private sector, and ownership is more fragmented than the sector's reputation suggests. Read the report → 4,804 Children's homes in England +19.8% Growth in homes year on year 1,673 Distinct owning organisations Source: Ofsted · Analysis: ARC Research ](https://arccare.co.uk/research/ofsted-provider-data-2025) ## What we publish REPORTS Full analyses of a public dataset, with charts, tables, method and limitations. Published when a dataset is refreshed or a question warrants sustained work. DATA BRIEFINGS Shorter pieces examining a single figure or trend, usually in response to a new release or a question raised by providers. ANNUAL RESEARCH A yearly State of Children's Residential Care report drawing together the year's data with sector context. In preparation. ## Using this research Our reports are free to read, quote and cite with attribution. Each report carries a citation block, a link to the original dataset, and a full account of method and limitations. Journalists and researchers who need underlying figures or a different cut of the data can contact us.