Children's Home run by Lancashire County Council in Lancashire

Unique reference number SC039676 Inspection date 15/10/2013 Inspector Caroline Jones Type of inspection Interim Provision subtype Children's home

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Date of last inspection 16/04/2013 Website: www.ofsted.gov.uk

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Brief description of the service

This is a short-break children's home operated by a local authority. It provides care and accommodation for up to 10 young people with physical and learning disabilities.

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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

At the previous full inspection, in April 2013, this short break home's overall effectiveness was judged as good. The service to young people continues to improve and the recommendations made at the last inspection have been fully addressed. Namely, young people's care plans are up to date and now detail the cultural and education needs of young people. Also information in relation to restraints is clearly recorded and management monitoring includes trend analysis systems to learn and develop practice further.

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Progress

Young people are involved in the running of the home through improved consultation processes. Their decisions influence the direction of the home, for example, as a response to young people's views and needs a fully equipped gymnasium and beauty therapy room is now available for them to enjoy. Additionally, young people are now involved in the Gateway Awards, which encourages them to gain new skills, independence and be active in the community. These practices empower young people to achieve their potential irrespective of disability. Challenging barriers to participation is a key strength of the home.

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Progress

Young people enjoy warm and positive relationships with staff who have a thorough understanding of their individual needs. Young people are settled during their short break and have remained in placement over a number of years, reflecting the stability of the home. Detailed care planning and proactive relationships with young people's families and partner agencies enables young people's needs to be identified and met to a high standard. Partner agencies comment: 'I am very happy, staff are highly professional and knowledgeable. Great interactions between staff and children.'

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Progress

The home is efficiently managed and operating in accordance to the conditions set. A clear vision of child centred and anti-discriminatory practice is prevalent within the home's culture. Quality assurance systems provide thorough oversight of the care to young people to ensure their welfare is promoted and protected during their short break. Staff morale is high and the Registered Manager and deputy managers continue to stimulate their motivation to create further opportunities for young people to develop.

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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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