High praise for 'exceptional' Leeds children's home rated outstanding for eighth time

Inspectors from the government watchdog said children at Rainbow House experience “exceptionally positive and enriching” short stays at the home and praised the “highly dedicated” staff who are committed to helping children achieve their full potential.

Rating it outstanding on all indicators, the new report – now published online – said: “The children’s home provides highly effective services that consistently exceed the standards of good.

“The actions of the children’s home contribute to significantly improved outcomes and positive experiences for children and young people who need help, protection and care.”

Rainbow House provides respite care and accommodation in the form of short-breaks for children and young people who have learning difficulties, physical disabilities or sensory impairment.

This latest inspection is the eighth consecutive outstanding rating for the home, with inspectors examining both the effectiveness of leadership and how well children and young people are helped and protected.

Led by a “highly ambitious and deeply committed manager,” the report said staff provide “exceptional care,” with a “strong understanding of each child’s needs”.

It also highlighted the valuable support offered beyond the short-break service - such as staff accompanying families to medical appointments and helping within home environments - as well as the many opportunities open to children which they may not otherwise access, including to musical instruments and outdoor activities such as ice skating.

Councillor Helen Hayden, Leeds City Council’s executive member for children and families, said: “We’re incredibly proud that inspectors have once again recognised the exceptional care provided at Rainbow House.

“For a children’s home to receive an ‘outstanding’ rating for the eighth time in a row is a remarkable achievement and it's testament to the fantastic work of the entire Rainbow House team that this highest standard of care is being maintained year on year.

“Our children’s homes are built on the foundation of our unwavering belief that every child deserves not just safety, but stability, ambition and the chance to thrive and nowhere is that more evident than Rainbow House. They are a credit to this city.”

To view the full report, and previous reports, visit: https://reports.ofsted.gov.uk/provider/2/SC406505

ENDS

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