Children's Home run by Ethelbert Specialist Homes Limited in Kent

Unique reference number SC023740 Inspection date 27/02/2014 Inspector David Putnam Type of inspection Interim Provision subtype Children's home

p.1

Date of last inspection 26/09/2013 Website: www.ofsted.gov.uk

p.1

This document may be reproduced in whole or in part for non-commercial educational purposes, provided that the information quoted is reproduced without adaptation and the source and date of publication are stated.

p.2

Brief description of the service

This privately owned children's home is registered for up to three children or young people who may have emotional and behavioural difficulties. Children or young people living in the home are able to access education through separately registered provision which is managed by the same organisation. Therapy or counselling is also available if this is appropriate.

p.3

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.

p.3

Progress

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

p.3

Progress

At the last full inspection the overall effectiveness of this home was judged to be outstanding. No requirements or recommendations were made to improve the service provided to young people. Led by an inspirational Registered Manager, the passionate and enthusiastic staff team demonstrate a continued commitment to improving the overall quality of care and outcomes for young people.

p.3

Progress

Young people describe their home as, ‘perfect’. Staff get to know each young person extremely well, in some cases over many years. This knowledge is utilised effectively to identify, and focus on, the individual needs of young people. As a result, young people grow in confidence and are motivated to progress and achieve. For example, young people identify improvements in their educational attainment and confidence in their own abilities.

p.3

Progress

All young people attend educational facilities that are selected to meet their specific needs. Some take on additional responsibilities in their school, having been voted into the role of prefect by their contemporaries. The outstanding contribution some young people make to their school is recognised through the receipt of prestigious awards. School reports confirm that all young people make demonstrable progress against nationally recognised criteria. Furthermore, the overall behaviour of young people and the efforts they make to learn are reported to be either good or outstanding.

p.3

Progress

The views of young people are continuously and naturally sought, ensuring that they are able to make a significant contribution to the day-to-day running of the home. When necessary, staff advocate strongly on behalf of young people to ensure that the views of young people are heard and considered by those making decisions about them. This supports young people to contribute effectively to their own plans.

p.4

Progress

Managers and staff continue to share important documentation with young people to promote openness and transparency. Since the last inspection the use of pictorial prompts has been extended to include a wider range of documents. This helps young people who have difficulty reading to understand key issues and recall discussions. In addition, it demonstrates genuine progress against clear plans and targets set by the Registered Manager.

p.4

Progress

Young people are supported to develop independence in ways that are suitable to their individual circumstances. Some travel to school by public transport or take part in activities in the wider community. This helps them to develop their self-esteem, personal confidence and make appropriate friendships. Young people are consulted about their preferences for continuing their learning after leaving school. Pro-active planning helps to identify and secure places on appropriate courses in local colleges. On reaching adulthood young people are enabled to make positive transitions after living in the home for several years. Managers, staff and young people remain in close contact, reflecting the close relationships established with young people over time.

p.4

Progress

Close working relationships are established and maintained with external professional agencies. This supports efficient organisational planning and preparation for new placements. Managers and staff also make valuable contributions to assessments of young people that are carried out by external specialists. Their observations inform professional judgements and promote positive outcomes for young people.

p.4

Progress

No requirements or recommendations for improvement are identified.

p.4

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.

p.5

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.

p.5