Children's home run by Headway Care Services Ltd

Assurance inspection report for children’s home: 2838079 1 Registered provider: Headway Care Services Ltd

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Inspected under the social care common inspection framework

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Information about this children’s home

The home is privately owned and provides care for up to 2 children who experience social and emotional difficulties.

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Information about this children’s home

The home and the manager registered with Ofsted in June 2025.

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Information about this children’s home

At the time of this inspection, one child was living at the home. The inspector spoke with the child as part of the inspection.

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Inspection date: 2 March 2026

Date of last inspection: 23 September 2025

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Inspection date: 2 March 2026

Judgement at last inspection: requires improvement to be good

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Inspection date: 2 March 2026

Enforcement action since last inspection: none

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Information about this inspection

At this inspection, the inspector evaluated:

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Information about this inspection

 the care of children  the safety of children  the effectiveness of leaders and managers. The inspector has looked closely at the experiences and progress of children, using the social care common inspection framework. This assurance inspection was carried out under the Care Standards Act 2000 to assess the effectiveness of the service, how it meets the core functions of the service as set out in legislation, and to consider how well it complies with The Children’s Homes (England) Regulations 2015 and the ‘Guide to the Children’s Homes Regulations, including the quality standards’. Assurance inspection report for children’s home: 2838079 2

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Findings from the inspection

We did not identify any serious or widespread concerns in relation to the care or protection of children at this assurance inspection.

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Findings from the inspection

Leaders have reflected and learned from the findings of the previous inspection, which has resulted in demonstrable improvements. All 4 previously issued requirements have now been met. No new requirements or recommendations have been raised at this inspection.

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Findings from the inspection

The same child has continued to live at the home since the last inspection. They spoke positively with the inspector about their experiences at the home and said they feel confident and comfortable seeking guidance and support from the adults who care for them. Leaders respond well to the child’s wishes, including their views about the staff team supporting them. As a result, trusting relationships have developed between the child and the staff. These relationships help the child feel safe and supported and are enabling them to develop skills in forming safe and secure relationships with others.

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Findings from the inspection

The child is making positive progress in engaging in a wider range of social activities, including horse riding and attending a local youth centre. Their participation in these activities enhances their experience of living at the home and provides regular opportunities to socialise with peers. As a result, the child is developing the confidence to try new experiences, learn new skills and build a positive sense of identity.

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Findings from the inspection

The home provides a warm and welcoming environment for the child. The manager and staff promote the celebration of special occasions, such as Valentine’s Day and Easter, with decorations proudly displayed throughout the home. The child’s bedroom is personalised and reflects their individuality and interests. This provides them with a safe and comfortable space where they can confidently express themselves. The nurturing environment supports the child’s emotional wellbeing and helps them feel valued and secure in their home.

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Findings from the inspection

Staff work closely and proactively with education professionals to help ensure that the child receives consistent support with their learning. When shortfalls were identified in the quality of additional tuition provided in line with the child’s educational plan, the manager took effective action to advocate on the child’s behalf. This has helped ensure that the child receives appropriate educational resources and support to enable them to reach their full potential. This proactive approach demonstrates strong partnership working and promotes positive educational outcomes for the child.

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Findings from the inspection

Staff manage incidents safely and effectively. The child’s plans and risk assessments provide clear guidance on how staff should respond to known risks and support the child safely. Staff understand these plans and apply them consistently in practice. Assurance inspection report for children’s home: 2838079 3 Risks identified during the last inspection have reduced, demonstrating that the home’s approach to assessing and managing risk is effective. Leaders take the time to discuss any changes made to the child’s risk assessment with them. This provides opportunities for the child to express their views and raise or challenge any concerns about their safety plans.

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Findings from the inspection

Staff say that managers provide a positive and supportive working environment. Leaders promote a culture in which staff feel valued and able to contribute to the development of the home. Team meetings are purposeful and support effective communication between staff. These meetings contribute positively to the running of the home and ensure that staff remain informed about the child’s needs. As a result, the child receives consistent care from well-supported, reflective staff who prioritise meeting their individual needs. Assurance inspection report for children’s home: 2838079 4

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Inspection date Inspection type Inspection judgement

23/09/2025 Full Requires improvement to be good Assurance inspection report for children’s home: 2838079 5

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Children’s home details

Registered provider: Headway Care Services Ltd

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Children’s home details

Registered provider address: Integritax Accountants, 68 Yardley Road, Birmingham B27 6LG

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Inspector

Charlotte Tippett, Social Care Inspector Assurance inspection report for children’s home: 2838079 6 to achieve excellence in the care of children and young people, and in education and skills for learners of all ages. It regulates and inspects childcare and children’s social care, and inspects the Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service (Cafcass), schools, colleges, initial teacher training, further education and skills, adult and community learning, and education and training in prisons and other secure establishments. It assesses council children’s services, and inspects services for children looked after, safeguarding and child protection.

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Inspector

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