Children's Home run by Mulberry House Care Homes Limited in Staffordshire

Unique reference number SC060554 Inspection date 13/03/2012 Inspector Susan Mullin Type of inspection Interim Provision subtype Children's home

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Date of last inspection 16/11/2011 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 care and accommodation for up to two young people with emotional and/or behavioural difficulties. It is operated by a private organisation.

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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 November 2011, the overall quality rating for the home was judged as good. Action has been taken to fully address the six requirements and three recommendations made at that inspection. The Statement of Purpose has been updated and a new children's guide is available. All staff have received mandatory training and agency staff are thoroughly vetted and known to management before they work in the home. There is now a full activities programme available in the home and all known risks to young people are appropriately risk assessed. The home has produced an annual development plan for the future of the home and bank staff now receive supervision in line with permanent staff. Several areas of the home have been redecorated and refurbished and the environment is very homely.

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Progress

This children's home demonstrates continued improvement in the quality of care provided, with a clear and focused commitment to service development. Leadership and management are good. The Registered Manager leads the team effectively. Education opportunities are sought for young people and staff support their journey into adulthood, with a robust independent living skills programme. This enhances young people’s self-worth and enables them to make a positive contribution to the home and in their community.

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Progress

The organisation and manager ensures that robust monitoring systems are in place to scrutinise the quality of care for young people. Areas highlighted for improvement are addressed quickly and care practice improvements are discussed during staff meetings. Young people’s meetings regularly take place and their active participation is encouraged. Young people also benefit from meeting with their key worker and these meetings are based on trust, respect and understanding. As a result, young people’s experiences and quality of life are improving.

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