Impressive ‘outstanding’ judgement for Apple Trees children’s home

A Council run short break service for children with learning disabilities, physical disabilities and autism, has been praised for their ‘outstanding’ work by Ofsted.

This is the 11th year in a row where Apple Trees children’s home has received this impressive accolade.

Ofsted said:

Staff treat children with dignity and respect. They actively seek children’s views and input in all aspects of their care. Staff encourage children to express their individual identities. One parent described the staff team as ‘incredible’ and said that ‘they really understand my child as an individual’.

The service is 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.

Cllr Julie Gunn, Executive Member for Children, Young People and Education said:

This unique service is making us so proud once again! The staff at Apple Trees have received another ‘outstanding’ Ofsted, that’s 11 in a row!

Many congratulations to the staff and I’m so pleased that the service is supporting children and families.

We are very fortunate to have a service like this in Blackburn with Darwen.

It’s an important place that has a hugely positive impact on children’s lives and the progress they make.

The report also mentions how children are supported and encouraged to enhance and develop their independence and life skills in line with their age, ability and understanding. As a result, some children have adopted these skills into their day-to-day lives as part of their own routines, which has helped to prepare them for moving into adulthood.

Ofsted also said:

Although children do not live permanently at the home, staff support children’s education during their stay. Staff actively take part in reviews and are fully aware of the educational needs of each child. They work with schools to ensure that communication aids and support strategies used are consistent across both settings.

Effective relationships with families are firmly in place. Feedback is actively encouraged from families and professionals. Families spoken to were extremely complimentary about the care provided. One parent said, ‘[Child’s name] has done so much better than we expected, and that’s because of the skills and warmth of the staff team.

Children benefit from well-planned stays at Apple Trees and staff make sure that they provide children with opportunities that expand their life experiences.

This means that children can access experiences that they may not otherwise be able to. They benefit greatly from spending time at the home and have fun while they stay there.

Denise Park, Chief Executive of Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, said:

Eleven years in a row is a huge achievement. Apple Trees is a wonderful service and one I am very proud of. Well done to everyone for keeping the standards of care to an outstanding level once again.

Jo Siddle, Strategic Director of Children’s and Education, said:

We know that children receive a high level of exceptional care at Apple Trees and I’m so delighted that Ofsted continue to see this. We are committed to working with parents and partners to ensure that children and families are supported, safe and feel cared for.