Form

Register as a children's social care provider: checklist

Download a checklist of documents you need to submit as part of a children's social care application.

• From: Ofsted
• Published: 8 September 2014
• Last updated: 1 August 2025
  Show all updates

  1. 1 August 2025

     Added a note to explain that there are significant delays in processing new registration applications due to an exceptionally high number of submissions.

  2. 24 May 2024

     Removed the need for a financial reference, following a change in legislation.

  3. 20 December 2018

     Included additional information about directors of children’s homes.

  4. 31 August 2018

     Updated information about applications from charities, planning permission documents and accepting copies of DBS certificates.

  5. 2 February 2018

     Updated the types of financial information required by trusts.

  6. 29 September 2017

     Change to Table 2: removed requirement to send Ofsted details of subscription to the DBS update service.

  7. 21 April 2017

     Applications must include all completed forms and relevant documents.

  8. 27 March 2015

     Updated form published today.

  9. 8 September 2014

     First published.

Applies to England

Documents

Checklist for children's social care application

PDF, 383 KB, 6 pages

Details

Due to the exceptionally high number of applications, it is taking us longer than usual to process new submissions.

To help avoid further delays, please ensure that you provide all required information both at the time of application and throughout the process.

Read guidance on how to register a children’s social care service with Ofsted.