A north-east children’s home for has been given its best review to date following a recent inspection.
Fernbank in Peterhead looks after up to four youngsters at a time during difficult periods of their lives.
The Care Service Inspectorate made an unannounced visit to the home earlier this year, and were impressed the work of the team – rating it as “very good” across all aspects.
In particular, inspectors praised staff for getting youngsters into school and involved in new activities.
Their report said: “Young people had achieved extremely high attendance rates at school, currently 99% attendance rates.
“There was evidence that young people had achieved a number of national qualifications which helped them access further education.
“Staff were good at getting young people to try new experiences.
“There had been a recent holiday to a caravan in Nairn where young people were outside and active in fresh air.
“Young people were also participating in regular walks and outings to the beach and helped to maintain hobbies and try new activities.”
The report did however find that additional learning needs had to be better identified, and that temporary staff should be supported better.
“There was a need to develop the young people’s personal plan to ensure any additional learning needs are identified and also support mechanisms which will be put in place to help young people,” the inspectors wrote.
“There was a need to develop the support strategies for relief staff to ensure that it reflects the best practices that are currently used for permanent staff.”
Last night Councillor Alison Evison, chairwoman of Aberdeenshire Council’s education committee, praised the work of staff at the home..
She said: “Staff at Fernbank Children’s Home should be very proud of the support they give the young people in their care.
“This inspection report is testament to the hard work they put in to help children during what can be difficult times in their lives.
“There is always more we can do to improve the services we provide and we will build on the strengths identified in this report so the high standards at Fernbank continue in the future.”
