We are delighted that three of our children’s homes run by West Sussex County Council have been commended by Ofsted for the quality of care they are providing children and young people.
Inspectors praised the relationships that staff at all three homes have built with children, as well as the support they provide enabling children to spend quality time with their families.
Following inspections in May and June, High Trees home in Crawley has been awarded an Outstanding rating, with Worthing’s Blue Cove and Bright Star homes both rated as Good. This follows the outstanding rating given to the Breakwater children's home in Shoreham last autumn, and provides further evidence of the great progress for Children's Services at the County Council under our Conservative Administration.
The homes look after children and young people with a variety of support needs. High Trees and Bright Star care for children with complex physical or learning difficulties, and Blue Cove provides short-term, emergency support for children in times of crisis, who may face significant emotional or social challenges.
Staff at High Trees were recognised for their ‘exceptionally effective’ help to promote the social and emotional well-being of children and for creating an environment where children feel ‘feel respected and valued’, with their voices heard.
Inspectors noted Blue Cove’s success in helping children develop independent living skills, and highlighted Bright Star’s work in ‘helping children have meaningful social experiences’ and their dedication to documenting this to help create ‘lifelong memories’ for children.
Councillor Jacquie Russell, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Learning, said: “Our staff work hard to improve the lives of children and young people in their care, and it is heartening to see the positive impact of their work recognised by Ofsted.
“Children who come into our care often have complex needs or family circumstances, so it is essential that our children’s homes provide safe, supportive and stable environments to call home.
“Our children first approach shines through in these reports, and this is key to ensuring that children in our care are able to achieve their full potential.”
Read the full reports on the Ofsted website: