Explanatory Note
(This note is not part of the Regulations.)
These Regulations make miscellaneous amendments to a number of sets of Regulations which govern the placement, care and accommodation of children looked after by authorities in the exercise of their functions under the Children (Northern Ireland) Order 1995, and related matters.
Firstly, they make consequential amendments to reflect the implementation of Parts I, II, III and IV of the Health and Personal Social Services (Quality, Improvement and Regulation) (Northern Ireland) Order 2003 in respect of children’s homes and care homes. Various other minor and updating amendments are also made.
Secondly, amendments are made to the Arrangements for Placement of Children (General) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1996 and the Review of Children’s Cases Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1996 relating to the health and health care of children looked after by authorities or accommodated by voluntary organisations and others. The Schedule of matters to be considered in relation to a child’s health on placement and review is expanded. A health care plan is to be prepared for each child. The frequency of health reviews for children aged between two and five is increased. Health assessments on placement or review may, but need not include a physical examination of the child, and reviews may be conducted by a nurse, under the supervision of a medical practitioner.