The only local authority-run children’s home in the Borders has received a glowing report following an unannounced inspection in April.
Wheatlands care home for young people aged 12-18, in Galashiels, was awarded ‘very good’ and ‘excellent’ grades after the two-day visit by the Care Inspectorate.
Inspectors praised the Scottish Borders Council-operated home’s committed, multi-skilled staff team for their work with young people in their care, making particular reference to the ways in which young people were supported to achieve their goals and broaden their experiences.
Wheatlands provides accommodation for up to five young people assessed as requiring medium to long-term residential care for a variety of reasons.
The inspection took into account the views of young people living at Wheatlands as well as views of staff members and evidence from documents such as care plans, meeting minutes and incident records.
Based on the findings of the inspection, Wheatlands was awarded the maximum grading of ‘excellent’ for its quality of environment and quality of staffing, and ‘very good’ grades for its quality of care and support and quality of management and leadership.