Early learning and childcare statistics 2024
The Care Inspectorate has today published ‘Early Learning and Childcare Statistics 2024’, the latest in our annual series of statistics about the use and provision of early learning and childcare in Scotland.
Read more
Social care staff invited to get a free flu vaccine
Social care staff of all ages who have direct hands-on duties are eligible to receive the flu vaccine this year. Appointment booking is open now.
The winter vaccine programme is targeted at those delivering direct care, whether employed by local authorities, independent or third sector employers.
Scottish Care, the Coalition of Care and Support Providers in Scotland, the Care Inspectorate and the Scottish Social Services Council support this approach.
Read more
New Quality improvement framework for the early learning and childcare sectors is published
We are delighted to announce we have now published the new shared Quality improvement framework for the early learning and childcare sectors. You can access the new framework here.
This final version of the framework, developed jointly by the Care Inspectorate and HM Inspectors, will be used in inspection of all early learning and childcare services, including childminders and school age childcare settings, from Monday 22 September 2025.
Contributions and feedback from settings and providers have been invaluable. Our sincere thanks go to everyone who has contributed to and supported the development of the framework.
Hear more from Jackie Irvine, Chief Executive of the Care Inspectorate, and Janie McManus, His Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Education, in this video. The Care Inspectorate has compiled some frequently asked questions (FAQs) to accompany the framework. These address some of the key points raised with us so far, via stakeholders and during our recent workshops and webinars. We will keep these FAQs updated as new questions arise. We have also produced these FAQs on self-evaluation.
Read more
Statement on Balhousie Dalnaglar, Crieff
A spokesperson for the Care Inspectorate said: “An inspection has identified serious and significant concerns about the quality of care experienced by residents at Balhousie Dalnaglar Care Home in Crieff.
Read more
Joint inspection of services for children and young people subject to compulsory supervision orders living at home with their parents - updated webpages
In August 2025, we started working with our scrutiny partners to take a more focused look at the experiences and outcomes of children and young people subject to compulsory supervision orders and living at home with parents. We have now updated our webpages to provide information to all with an interest in these inspections.
Read more