Children's homes earn 'outstanding' ratings

Three Wakefield Council-run children's homes have been awarded "outstanding" ratings following Ofsted inspections.

In one of the homes, inspectors found "children have wonderful experiences" and "are making and sustaining fantastic progress in all areas of their development".

Ofsted inspectors also judged four other homes run by the council as "good", with one especially praised for its leadership and management.

Margaret Isherwood, the council's cabinet member for children and young people, said: "We are delighted our children's homes have once again been recognised for their outstanding work."

Ofsted inspectors highlighted that children at one of the homes had "trusted, secure and lasting relationships" with staff, and that leadership "creates an environment where children and staff flourish".

One child told inspectors that staff had given them "a voice".

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, the leadership and management was commended for its embedded use of research-informed practice, trauma-informed care and a strong ethos of reflection and learning.

Wakefield Council said the results reaffirmed its "commitment to providing safe, nurturing environments where children can thrive".

Isherwood said: "These results reflect not only the excellent care currently being delivered, but also the continued commitment of our staff to maintaining high standards over time.

"Our homes are places where children feel safe, valued and supported – and where they can thrive.

"This consistency is testament to the dedication of our teams and their ongoing focus on the individual needs of every child."

Wakefield Council plans to open additional children's homes in the coming year to meet rising demand and offer more children high-quality, local care.

The authority has also shared its expertise with over 20 other local authorities, supporting the improvement and development of residential care provision nationally.

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