A recent Care Inspectorate report has highlighted the positive impact of support being provided at Wallace Crescent Children’s Home, with young people reporting that they feel safe, listened to and valued.

The service, which is operated by Falkirk Council and provides accommodation for up to five children and young people, received an unannounced visit from the Care Inspectorate.

The visit assessed the services ability to uphold children and young people’s rights to be safe and at the centre of their own care.

During the inspection, inspectors spoke with young people, staff, management and a visiting professional, as well as observing practice and reviewing documentation.

The report praised the home for ensuring young people are actively involved in decisions that affect them. The inspectorate found that young people’s voices were “central and influential in decision making” and that the approach of the home promoted “inclusion, empowerment, and shared sense of responsibility”.

Inspectors also recognised the positive impact staff have on young people’s emotional wellbeing. Young people reported feeling calmer, safer and better able to manage their emotions through the tailored support they receive. One young person told inspectors staff had “helped me get my emotions out, so I wasn’t stressed anymore”, while another simply said: “I felt safe.”

The report highlighted strong partnership working with education providers and other agencies, alongside tailored support that helps young people to settle and make sustained positive progress.

Falkirk’s Chief Social Work Officer, Sara Lacey, welcomed the inspection results: “This report reflects the dedication and commitment of the team to providing nurturing care that is centred around the needs of young people. It is particularly encouraging to see young people themselves describing the positive impact of the support received and their involvement in decisions about their care.

“The relationships built between staff and young people are central to helping children and young people thrive, develop confidence and achieve their goals. I thank all colleagues and partners for their continued efforts to create a safe, stable, and caring environment where young people can flourish.”

The full inspection report for Wallace Crescent Children’s Home is available on the Care Inspectorate website.