The turnaround at a young people’s care home slated by inspectors after problems led to a part closure of the premises has been lauded by Angus Council’s children and learning convener.
Care Inspectorate officials previously branded the service, staffing and management at Brambles Cottages on the edge of Arbroath as “weak” after describing youngsters there as “anxious and unsettled”.
The grading following an unannounced visit last September was in sharp contrast to previous inspections, and followed a temporary closure of one of the two buildings at the James Chalmers Road facility.
It comprises two cottages, Rowan and Logan, which can accommodate up to nine children.
Inspectors highlighted stretched staffing levels as a result of the “precautionary suspension” of staff pending an investigation at the complex’s Rowan Cottage into allegations later found to be unsubstantiated.
The Care Inspectorate report led to a number of key recommendations being delivered and the findings of a follow-up inspection reported to Angus children and learning committee members has revealed all appropriate actions have been met within the set timescales.
Improvements included a comprehensive assessment of staffing requirements, a recruitment drive and increase in sessional staff along with the implementation of an admissions policy including an assessment of the suitability of a young person for placement in the home setting, and the impact of new admissions on those already living there.
Angus officials said a comprehensive policy has been developed to support both planned and unplanned admissions.
Education provision has also been reviewed to help enable the young people there to achieve their academic potential.
Children and learning convener, Arbroath Conservative councillor Derek Wann, said: “This has not been without its challenges in terms of staffing and the behaviour of some of its residents, culminating in the temporary closure of Rowan.
“A number of requirements were imposed and a follow-up inspection took place.
“I am delighted that all of the requirements were met and inspectors were pleased with what they found,” added Mr Wann.
“Significant work has been done, including an admissions policy being developed and the service is now fully open and going well.”
