The 4th and final new children’s home has now opened as part of Rochdale Borough Council’s £3.4 million investment into the expansion of its residential provision.
Welcoming young people for the first time, the new home ‘Diamond’ will support 3 children with complex needs and disabilities who come into care and comes equipped with features like its own dedicated sensory room.
The dedicated sensory room at Diamond House.
12 placements are now provided in total across the new quartet of jewel-named homes, with the others named Emerald, Sapphire and Ruby following suggestions from cared for children.
This investment stems from a challenging period nationally for local councils, as authorities continue to struggle in locating suitably available placements for children in their care.
Through the provision of these new homes, which offer a warm and comforting homestyle environment to those who need it, more children and young people can now remain in the area that they call home, rather than being placed miles out of borough.
Dining room at Diamond House.
Councillor Rachel Massey, cabinet member for children's services and education, said:
“As the latest jewel in our crown of new homes, I’m delighted to see Diamond open its doors and its homely and friendly feel will make a real difference to the lives of children and young people who need our support.
“Our investment into homes like this means more children can receive high-quality care in the areas that they are familiar with and help them to maintain the important relationships and connections which support their wellbeing and development.
“I am proud of the work they are already demonstrating for our borough and look forward to the impact Diamond will have too.”
As well as better supporting young people, these extra placements come with the additional benefit of reducing costs too, with the council estimated to save more than £466,000 a year as it reduces its reliance on external placements thanks to this increased internal provision.
The council now oversees 7 children’s homes in total and is currently in the process of investing in 4 additional children’s homes as part of a 2nd wave of investment.
These homes will support children and young people with more severe and complex needs who require highly focused support.