Children's Home run by Darlington Borough Council in Darlington

Unique reference number SC037861 Inspection date 31/01/2013 Inspector Deborah White Type of inspection Interim Provision subtype Children's home

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Date of last inspection 25/07/2012 Website: www.ofsted.gov.uk

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Brief description of the service

This local authority children’s home provides care and accommodation for up to three children of either sex. It is registered to care for young people whose main needs arise from emotional or behavioural difficulties.

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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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Progress

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

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Progress

The overall outcome judgement at the last full inspection that took place in July 2012 was good. The home has continued to progress, which has resulted in good outcomes for children.

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Progress

A recommendation from the last inspection is met. Risk management in the home is good. Children’s individual risk assessments show known risks and how these will be minimised. As a result children are and feel safe.

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Progress

Children are progressing and achieving. They are supported to promote good educational outcomes. Staff work with schools and education providers to ensure children reach their potential. School work and vocational courses are supported by staff arranging bespoke activities to enhance learning. For example, children have attended shows to learn about drama; joined local clubs that are involved in learning about music and sports and joining sports teams. Thereby channelling their individual talents.

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Progress

Children are actively developing independence skills to help them make a smooth transition into adulthood. Each child is consulted about what skills they think they need to learn. This engages and involves children in important decisions in their lives. Where appropriate parents are involved and invited to contribute to the assessment process. This has had a positive impact on how children progress.

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Progress

Children are consulted about how they can contribute to their local community. The home arranges events throughout the year to raise money for charity. Events include seasonal parties such as Halloween and Easter; an annual strawberry tea party and a summer barbeque. Children decide how the events will be organised and who will be invited. Fund raising activities are arranged and children decide where the proceeds will be donated. The home have recently received a four star award for their services to local charities. This promotes inclusion and teaches children how to empathise and contribute to good causes.

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Progress

Staff feel valued and supported, which provides a positive environment for children. Good inter-agency working ensures children have access to the services they need. Staff regularly liaise with local services, such as the local police, to monitor and support vulnerable children.

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Progress

The home are developing services to include some outreach work. Staff meet with children who are newly referred to help them understand how it will be to live at a children’s home. Staff befriend children before they are accommodated to enable trusting relationships. This helps children make a planned move into care, which helps them adapt to a significant change in their lives.

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Progress

There are no new requirements or recommendations arising from this inspection.

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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.

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