Inspectors praised the home’s warm, child‑centred atmosphere, personalised spaces and the strong, trusting relationships between children and staff.
They visited the home in South Derbyshire in January and spoke to the 4 young people living there, who told inspectors they felt safe, listened to and supported.
Other key points in the report included:
- children live in a well‑presented, comfortable and nurturing environment that they help shape with their own ideas and preferences
- staff build strong, trusting relationships with children through a caring and respectful approach, including writing thoughtful letters to support communication.
- children feel safe and can identify adults they trust to talk to
- education is prioritised and tailored to each child’s needs, with proactive support when young people are not in school
- transitions into and out of the home are sensitively planned, ensuring children feel settled and supported
- staff feel well supported, benefit from regular supervision, and are confident raising concerns
The report adds that education remains a key focus, with staff working proactively to help each child access the right learning.
Inspectors also highlighted the team’s strong safeguarding practice, swift action when children need support, and the sensitive way moves into and out of the home are handled.
Leadership was also recognised as a real strength, with the manager commended for being ambitious, reflective and a steadfast advocate for children’s best interests.
Councillor Sam Redfern, Cabinet Member for Children and Families, said:
“We’re delighted to share the positive outcome of a recent Ofsted inspection at one of our children’s homes.
“This rating is testament to the leadership and dedication of the team and the children, whose voices and experiences continue to shape the home for the better.”