A children’s home in Huyton has maintained its “Good” Ofsted judgement following a recent inspection.
Bedford Close provides care for up to three children who may have social or emotional difficulties.
The home was judged to be “Good” in how well children and young people are helped and protected; the effectiveness of leaders and managers and the effective services it provides to meet the requirements of children.
Inspectors noted that:-
- Children who live at the home have made progress in many aspects of their lives.
- Staff provide warm, nurturing care and support to help children to develop a sense of belonging.
- Children attend school regularly. Staff have high expectations of school attendance, and the manager works alongside other professionals to ensure that appropriate support is in place. As a result, children are now engaging in their learning. Children are happy to attend school and are making progress.
- Children are supported to have regular quality time with their families. Staff encourage families to visit the home regularly and support family time in the community.
- Children’s health needs are being met. Staff ensure that children have access to support from community and specialist health services and that children attend their appointments. This multi-agency working supports children’s physical and emotional health and well-being.
- Children are encouraged to take part in a wide range of activities and their interests are supported.
- Children’s achievements are celebrated. Staff give children meaningful rewards, based on their likes and interests. This positive approach helps children to develop a more positive view about themselves.
- Children’s wishes and feelings are actively encouraged through regular discussions.
- Children take an active part in making choices about their day-to-day lives. The manager has introduced more structured, planned discussions with children so that support is given to meet the needs identified in their care plans.
- Children said they feel safe in the home. Children’s safety is consistently at the centre of staff’s practice.
- Staff have a good understanding of children’s behaviours and individual vulnerabilities. The manager is quick to identify emerging risk for children and is working with other professionals to ensure that children are safeguarded.
- The registered manager is experienced, child-focused and aspirational. She has good management oversight of the day-to-day running of the home. The manager ensures that there is a stable staff team in place, which provides consistency for children. Staff enjoy working at the home and feel supported by the manager. The manager has strong working relationships with other professionals and there is clear communication and multi-agency working.
Cllr David Lonergan, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said: “This is a great Ofsted inspection report for Bedford Close. It provides invaluable services and support to children and families and the children who live there are progressing and developing their confidence and skills. This latest inspection confirms that all children’s homes in Knowsley are judged to be Good which is a great achievement.”