Children's Home run by Break Charity in Norfolk

Unique reference number SC025718 Inspection date 27/02/2012 Inspector Louisa Bayley Type of inspection Interim Provision subtype Children's home

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Date of last inspection 08/12/2011 Website: www.ofsted.gov.uk

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About this inspection

The purpose of this inspection is to assure children and young people, parents, the public, local authorities and government of the quality and standard of the service provided. The inspection was carried out under the Care Standards Act 2000 to assess the effectiveness of the service and to consider how well it complies with the relevant regulations and meets the national minimum standards.

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About this inspection

The report details the progress made by the provider since the last full inspection, identifies any further strengths, any areas for improvement and makes judgements as outlined in the Inspection of children’s homes – framework for inspection (March 2011).

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The inspection judgements and what they mean

Good progress The children’s home has demonstrated continued improvement in quality of care and outcomes for children and young people and where appropriate has addressed all requirements and the large majority of recommendations that were raised at the previous inspection. Satisfactory progress The children’s home has maintained quality of care and outcomes for children and young people and where appropriate has addressed all requirements and the majority of recommendations that were raised at the previous inspection. Inadequate progress The children’s home has failed to address one or more requirements and/or has not met the majority of recommendations and/or the quality of care and outcomes for children and young people have declined since the last full inspection.

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Brief description of the service

This children's home provides medium to long-term accommodation for up to five young people with emotional and behavioural difficulties and, or learning disabilities. The home is owned by a registered charity that also owns a number of other children's homes and a residential family centre.

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Progress

Since their previous inspection the service is judged to be making good progress.

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Progress

At the last inspection in December 2011, the overall effectiveness of this home was judged to be good. Four requirements and one recommendation were raised at this full inspection. This home demonstrates continued improvement in the quality of care. There has been specific emphasis on consulting with young people to gain their views regarding the running of the home. Staff have been creative in engaging with young people, ensuring a fully inclusive process. Young people's meetings are now taking place fortnightly and young people are also invited to the staff team meetings. There is a system to ensure young people receive written feedback regarding decisions that have been made. As a result, young people feel listened to and can see that their views are valued.

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Progress

There is an ongoing programme of redecoration in the home. The kitchen has been wallpapered and work has been carried out to make it look more homely. Young people said they would like the existing lounge to become the games room and this has been actioned. The new lounge is well decorated and comfortable. The fire doors have been upgraded, in line with the fire audit recommendations. Although there are still areas which require decoration, progress is good.

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Progress

Since the full inspection, the manager has put systems in place to ensure that all staff receive appropriate training. The coordination of training is delegated to a member of the management team and a matrix has been drawn up to clearly illustrate when training is due. Those who require training have attended relevant courses and others are booked on to upcoming courses. Staff have identified their future training needs, with their managers and team leaders, during supervision. This proactive approach helps to ensure that courses are booked in good time. Additionally, the manager has devised a reporting system whereby staff are asked to consider how they will implement their training into their daily practice. The result of this places emphasis on the way in which staff training will positively impact on outcomes for young people.

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Progress

In response to a requirement raised at the full inspection, the manager has liaised with local police to define the process when young people are absent without permission or missing from care. The home has its own policy and refers to the Local Safeguarding Children Board policy. A further requirement, to notify HMCI of any events listed in Schedule 5, has also been addressed.

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Progress

The manager has taken steps to improve the recording of staff supervision. However, there are still some gaps in recording. The manager has recognised this and has communicated the importance of supervision, and appropriate recording, to the senior team. The recommendation will remain.

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Progress

Young people continue to receive well planned care and enjoy positive relationships with the staff team. The home engages well with a wide range of agencies and professionals, to ensure that young people receive the support and guidance they need. The staff have a good understanding of individual’s needs and vulnerabilities. They work hard to balance young people’s well-being with the opportunity for them to take appropriate risks.

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Recommendations

To improve the quality and standards of care further the service should take account of the following recommendation(s):

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Recommendations

 ensure a written record is kept by the home detailing the time and date and length of each supervision held for each member of staff, including the registered person. The record is signed by the supervisor and the member of staff at the end of the supervision. (NMS 19.5)

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