A children’s home which provides short breaks for children and young people with learning disabilities has been rated good by Ofsted.
The centre, which is run by us, provides short breaks for children and young people aged five to 18 with learning disabilities.
During its visit in June, Ofsted found that all children who visit the centre receive individualised care and positive experiences. In the report, one parent praised the service, and said that they felt ‘so welcome and involved in the transition process’.
Ofsted recognised that children who visit the centre learn new life skills and that, as a result, some can now confidently prepare meals and develop their skills. The report highlights that staff encourage children to express themselves and have received additional training on alternative communication. As a result, children feel listened to and confidently express themselves and staff are able to effectively engage and personally respond to children consistently.
During their stay children also take part in a variety of fun activities including visiting the local park, playing in the garden and relaxing in the sensory room.
Ofsted also included some areas for improvement in its report including ensuring risk assessments state how the vulnerability of children is considered when they receive personal care, ensuring all staff follow the incident reporting policy and all original copies of staff identification documents are checked. We have already taken action to address this and has implemented the recommendations made by Ofsted.
It is a fantastic centre
Cllr Josie Iles, Medway Council’s Lead Member for Children’s Services, said: “I am very pleased Ofsted has recognised the hard work and progress staff at the children’s home have made since the last inspection in 2021. It is a fantastic centre which provides short breaks for young people where they can learn new things and take part in fun activities. The centre, and our staff, ensure that the young people who visit, as well as their families, are supported and I am incredibly proud that the centre has been rated good by Ofsted.”
The work of the centre echoes Medway's ambitions to become a child-friendly city, providing opportunities for children and young people.