Housing Plus, formerly known as QARA, has achieved Ofsted registration (Registration Number: 2765716) in the ring-fenced supported accommodation category, following a successful site visit last November. This designation underscores Housing Plus’s compliance with stringent national standards for safeguarding, staff training, and living environments—critical for young people transitioning from care to independence.
“This significant milestone in our journey reflects a long-standing commitment to achieving the highest standards for the young people we support. The whole team is excited to be entering a new phase in the continued pursuit of excellence,”
Chris Ampofo, Founder, Director, and Registered Service Manager, Housing Plus Ltd.
Why Ofsted Registration Matters
For over 20 years, Housing Plus has provided safe, nurturing, and trauma-informed accommodation for care-leavers aged 16–17. The Ofsted registration formalizes Housing Plus’s dedication to:
- Stability: Family-owned properties designed to feel like home, not institutions (“We would be happy to live here ourselves”).
- Holistic Support: 24/7 keyworkers, ESOL classes, and partnerships with local colleges to bridge education gaps (“They helped me go to college and support every aspect of my life”).
- Safety: Rigorous staff recruitment (enhanced DBS checks) and CCTV in communal areas for safeguarding.
Rooted in Experience
Founded in 2001 by Chris Ampofo—whose own background as the child of immigrants informs Housing Plus’s multicultural approach—the organization evolved from QARA, a refugee family support initiative. Today, Housing Plus specializes in:
- Shared, homely environments with private bedrooms and communal kitchens (“I have a nice big room and it’s very clean here”).
- Tailored transitions: Pathway Plans co-designed with youth to build life skills (budgeting, cooking, mental health support).
What’s Next?
With Ofsted’s stamp of approval, Housing Plus reaffirms its vision: empowering care-leavers to “realize their dreams” through stability, education, and community. As one young person shared:
“I am being supported to live my best life.”
For referrals or collaborations, contact Chris Ampofo at chris@hpgroup.com.