A Medway Council-run short breaks care home has received a good rating by Ofsted, with inspectors praising staff for providing a mix of fun, positive experiences, education, and independence skills.
It is the third good rating in a row for the home in Gillingham, which provides short breaks for children aged from five to 18-years-old with a diagnosed learning disability or a learning and physical disability.
The latest inspection came in November last year (2025) and found that children are making progress at the home and that staff work closely with parents and professionals to provide consistent care.
In one case, a parent described the care at the home as ‘life-changing’ for their child, and other parents and professionals spoke positively about the services provided.
Inspectors also found individual communication needs are well understood, with staff using creative systems to help children share their views with the help of pictures and symbols, helping them choose things such as activities and food .
Staff are also skilled at meeting the children’s complex health needs, ensuring that appropriate care is delivered and medication delivered effectively.
The inspection also found a good safeguarding culture, and effective leadership team, who ‘want nothing but the best for children’ and continue to develop the home.
There has also been the introduction of a new apprenticeship scheme and staff feel empowered to fulfil their roles effectively and make safe decisions to support and give children the best possible experiences.
The report also found that recruitment procedures have not always been effective, but that the leadership had introduced new systems to monitor recruitment.
Medway Council’s Portfolio Holder of Children’s Services, Cllr Adam Price, said: “It’s wonderful to hear how improvements continue to be made at this care home, which provides a fantastic, caring environment for children and young people. It’s great that Ofsted recognised the positive impact the team is having on children’s lives, and it’s inspiring to hear about their commitment to their roles. It’s also reassuring to hear about the effectiveness of the leadership team, and I’m sure their services will continue to improve.”