Praise for Moray children's home

The Care Inspectorate visited Cala, which is home to up to six young people aged 11 or older, in September, with the report presented to councillors yesterday.

It was rated as ‘Very Good’ and ‘Good’, for supporting children and young people’s wellbeing, and the planning of care and support, respectively.

Inspectors said that children and young people experience compassion, dignity and respect; children and young people get the most out of life, and their health benefits as a result of the care and support they experience.

Those living within Cala receive individualised care and support, in a therapeutic and homely environment. Placements range from short –term – in the region of three months­ – or, in some cases, until they are able to move on to independent living.

Inspectors reported: “Staff who worked at Cala were warm, caring and provided a nurturing environment for young people. Young people were always treated with respect and this principle was at the heart of the service's culture and framework of practice.

“When we spoke with staff they demonstrated that they really knew the young people they cared for. This improved outcomes for young people as secure relationships had been established with staff. This enabled young people to share anxieties, accept comfort and reassurance.”

Despite facing challenges, inspectors said the service has overcome these “due to the diligence and tenacity of the staff team”.

Chair of Moray Council’s Children & Young People’s Services Committee, Cllr Sonya Warren, said she is pleased to see the efforts of staff reflected in the report.

“Our dedicated social workers and care staff centre their care and support around the needs of the children and young people at Cala, and I’m delighted to see the positive feedback from parents, colleagues and our young people. We’ll work to implement the improvement suggested by the Care Inspectorate, and continue to provide high-quality services for our young people at Cala.”