Matching Assessments for Safe and Suitable Placements

Matching children and young people to a residential placement is one of the most critical decisions we make. This session offers a practical and regulatory-informed approach to completing matching assessments that ensure placements are not only available, but appropriate, safe, and stable.

Designed for practitioners working in both children’s homes and supported accommodation, this course explores how to assess individual needs, environmental factors, and group dynamics, supporting thoughtful and well-evidenced decisions that prioritise the wellbeing of all young people involved.

Why It Matters

Poor matching can lead to placement breakdown, safeguarding concerns, and negative emotional impact for young people. Effective matching risk assessments reduce these risks by ensuring key factors, such as emotional needs, behaviours, location, and compatibility, are considered before a placement is agreed.

In a context where inspectors and commissioners are increasingly scrutinising placement decisions, this training helps services meet expectations and protect young people through structured, child-centred, and clearly documented matching processes.

Course Highlights

• Understand the purpose and legal expectations of matching risk assessments• Learn how to assess individual risks, group dynamics, and environmental suitability• Explore impact assessment and how to evidence compatibility between young people• Integrate matching with care/support planning and multi-agency decision-making• Use tools and templates that meet regulatory and inspection requirements• Strengthen your confidence in completing and presenting matching assessments

About the Trainer:

Miguel Valerio is a social worker is more than 20 years of experience. His journey has taken him from research and university lecturing to hands-on work in the sector where he worked as a Responsible Individual (Children’s Homes) and Registered Service Manager (Supported Accommodation). On these roles, he was responsible for developing and overseeing services for young people, ensuring regulatory compliance, and supporting staff training and service improvement. His extensive experience in quality assurance, governance, and leadership has equipped him with the knowledge and skills to guide professionals in navigating the complexities of residential children’s social care.