Ten out of ten! Another ‘outstanding’ judgement for Apple Trees’ children’s home-from-home service

A Council-run short term breaks service for children with disabilities has been rated ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted.

Staff at Apple Trees in Blackburn have been praised for their care, proving short breaks for children up to the age of 18 with disabilities.

Parents describe the facility, now in its tenth year as a ‘lifeline’ providing children with care and support when they need it the most.

Apple Trees provides a range of services, depending on the needs of the child, young person and carer.

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

It’s brilliant to see the fantastic work that goes on there and I received some positive feedback from family members and staff that the service is excellent, and they are proud that it is being recognised as one of the best of its type in the country. Well done to everyone involved for keeping the standards of care to an outstanding level once again.

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

This is amazing and it is a brilliant achievement for the tenth year running. Families know that they can trust staff with the care of their children so it is lovely to hear their feedback about the positive difference the staff make to their lives.

Councillor Julie Gunn, Deputy Leader and Executive Member for Children, Young People and Education, said:

Ten outstanding Ofsted reports is absolutely amazing. We are incredibly proud of the staff at Apple Trees and after speaking to parents of the children who use the service it’s clear to see that it really is a home from home. Well done to everyone.

Jeremy Wood Registered Manager at Apple Trees, said:

I am amazingly proud of this achievement once again we are outstanding. The team work incredibly hard and are so committed to the job that they do. The above and beyond approach by the team is what makes it work. We work tirelessly to get the best outcome for our young people