Bridges Resource Centre, which provides short breaks for children with complex needs and disabilities, has been awarded outstanding by Ofsted in a recent inspection.
Bridges Resource Centre in Woodley gives high quality short breaks to children who have complex needs, learning and/or physical disabilities between the ages of 8 to 18.
The inspection was carried out at the beginning of July and was published earlier this month. Ofsted found that: “The children are at the centre of all practice and there is a culture of respect and dignity evident in all staff practice.” The report goes on to say: “The children’s positive experiences start from the very first time that they stay.”
The service was praised for the high quality partnership work between others working with the children, such as their school, and with the parents, meaning that children have continuity and consistency and parents can be reassured about the care their children receive. Children receive a holistic support package with input from a wide range of services, that supports not only their needs, but the wider families.
Ofsted found the management team highly effective, knowledgeable and passionate and constantly making improvements to benefit the children. Their response to Covid-19 was also highlighted, as apart from three days when the service was closed so staff could be tested, they remained open throughout. Ofsted said: “Staying open ensured that the children and their families received a consistent and invaluable short-break service.”
Cllr Graham Howe, executive member for children’s services, said: “We know that the service that we offer for children with special and complex needs and disabilities is well-received by families and that the opportunities this gives children is brilliant, so I am pleased to see that affirmed by Ofsted rating the service outstanding.
“This is the tenth outstanding rating the service has had, which is down to the incredible hard work and dedication of the team and the passion and energy they put into their work with children. I offer my congratulations and thanks to the team.”
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