A short break service for children who have learning difficulties and disabilities has been praised for their ‘outstanding’ work by Ofsted.
This is the eighth year in a row where council-run Apple Trees children’s home has received the accolade.
The service, in Kelsall Avenue, Little Harwood, has been recognised as being one of the best of its type in the country and provides care for children who may have learning difficulties and/or physical disabilities and other complex healthcare needs.
Inspectors said: “Children receive excellent care when accessing the short-break service.
"They are offered a variety, and continually developing range, of opportunities and experiences that would not ordinarily be available to them.
“These experiences include access to hydro-pools, days out at theme and safari-parks, kayaking and game events provided by a local football team.
“The children’s home provides highly effective services that consistently exceed the standards of good.
“The actions of the children’s home contribute to significantly improved outcomes and positive experiences for children and young people who need help, protection and care.”
Apple Trees’ provides short breaks for up to five children with complex needs at one time. The team provide a range of ‘home from home’ support and activity depending on the needs of the child, young person and carer.
Executive Member for Children, Young People and Education, Cllr Julie Gunn, said: “We are extremely proud to run such a unique service in Blackburn with Darwen.
“The staff at Apple Trees’ have proved their commitment once again and received an ‘outstanding’ Oftsed report for the eighth time.
“Many congratulations to them for making sure there is a strong family feel to the service. As the report states the input of this service has a significant positive impact on children’s goals and the progress they make.
“This is ultimately our goal that both parents and children feel encouraged and supported.”
The report also mentions how parents expressed an extremely high level of trust in the staff to offer their children the best possible care. Some described it as an extension of their own family and felt very connected to the service.
Parents and social workers recognised that the input of the service has a significant positive impact on children’s goals and the progress that they make.
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