New homes offer children high-quality care

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The fourth and final new children’s home has now opened as part of Rochdale Council’s £3.4 million investment into the expansion of its residential provision.

Welcoming young people for the first time, the new home, known as Diamond, will support three children with complex needs and disabilities who come into care.

The four jewel-named homes — including Emerald, Sapphire and Ruby — provide 12 placements across the borough.

The new homes offer a warm and comforting homestyle environment to those who need it, enabling more children and young people to remain in the area that they call home, rather than being placed miles out of borough.

Cllr Rachel Massey, cabinet member for children’s services and education, said: “As the latest jewel in our crown of new homes, I’m delighted to see Diamond open its doors and its homely and friendly feel will make a real difference to the lives of children and young people who need our support.

The dedicated sensory room at Diamond House.

“Our investment into homes like this means more children can receive high-quality care in the areas that they are familiar with and help them to maintain the important relationships and connections which support their wellbeing and development.

“I am proud of the work they are already demonstrating for our borough and look forward to the impact Diamond will have too.”

As well as better supporting young people, these extra placements come with the additional benefit of reducing costs, with the council estimated to save more than £466,000 a year as it reduces its reliance on external placements thanks to this increased internal provision.

The council now oversees seven children’s homes in total and is currently in the process of investing in four additional children’s homes as part of a second wave of investment.

These homes will support children and young people with more severe and complex needs who require highly focused support.