Blackburn children's hub planned for grounds of retirement home

It will use the building originally earmarked as seven assisted living apartments attached to Acer Lodge off Eleanor Street, Higher Audley.

The four-storey senior living home, which overlooks the Leeds–Liverpool Canal, has 70 ensuite rooms.

Now, Altrincham-based Compassionate Children’s Care & Support Limited plans to put the two-storey block, originally intended as assisted living apartments, to a new use.

The firm has applied to Blackburn with Darwen Council for a Certificate of Lawfulness to convert it into a children’s residential home for up to four young people, with up to eight staff on site at any one time.

It will offer respite and short-stay accommodation for children with additional needs, giving parents and carers time to rest and recharge.

A supporting statement says:
“The property is currently vacant, and we have a signed lease with the landlord with full agreement to operate the premises.

“We are only looking to take over the two-storey assisted living apartments. The four-storey care home will remain as approved.

“The home will be staffed according to the ratios agreed with the local authority.

“We will be registered to accommodate up to four children between the ages of eight and 17 years.

“The children we care for will encompass a range of needs including emotional and behavioural, learning disabilities and children who may require support with their mental health.

“All children will be encouraged to participate in a form of education, may this be mainstream school, or more commonly a specialist provision.”

Compassionate Care Group chief executive Michael Medlicott said:
“This is more than just a new children’s home – it’s a beautiful example of what happens when we think creatively about care.

“By partnering with Acer Lodge we’re creating something really special.

“Children will benefit from the calm, experienced environment and the gentle wisdom of older residents, while the residents at Acer Lodge will enjoy the laughter, energy and pure joy that children bring.

“The shared grounds mean families and residents can enjoy beautiful gardens and facilities together.

“The home has been thoughtfully designed with input from families and professionals to feel safe, stimulating and welcoming.”

Samantha Crawley, chief executive of the EQ Care Group which runs Acer Lodge, said:
“This is an exciting opportunity to ensure that vital intergenerational experiences are curated for Acer Lodge care home and the children who will be our neighbours.”