Llamau, the charity working to end homelessness in Wales, has seen its new home in the Vale of Glamorgan receive Excellent and Good ratings across all key categories in its recent and first inspection by Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW).
Excellent ratings were achieved in the Care and Support, Leadership and Management, and Wellbeing and Good for Environment categories.
The charity said the recognition of excellent practice reflects the commitment of the entire team, adding that they have created a nurturing environment where children and young people feel valued, cared for, listened to and supported to allow them to thrive.
Llamau’s commitment to creating a nurturing and smoother pathway for young people, from care to independence, has been an important driver in this example of partnership working with a local authority, the charity said.
As a result, a new model of children’s home has been developed. Only 18 months ago, Llamau had yet to open a registered children’s home. However, a great many of the young people who come into Llamau’s supported accommodation at 16 had previously experienced difficult or unsettled placements. They told the team at Llamau just how challenging they found living in these environments and how apprehensive they felt leaving care and immediately moving on to full independence.
Listening to these experiences, combined with Llamau’s expertise and strong commitment to the previous Welsh Government’s aim to eliminate private profit from the care of looked-after children, made it feel appropriate for the charity to explore and develop its own children's homes, it said.
Sam Austin, Llamau Chief Executive Officer, said:
“This inspection outcome reflects the compassion, professionalism and unwavering commitment shown by our colleagues. We are incredibly proud of the positive culture that has been created within our Vale of Glamorgan home. It's one where children feel safe, respected and genuinely cared for. I am delighted this has been recognised by Care Inspectorate Wales. Ongoing we will continue to focus on researching, learning and developing the service we provide to ensure the very best outcomes for the children and young people in our care.”
Councillor Eddie Williams, Cabinet Member for Social Care and Health at the Vale of Glamorgan Council, said:
“The CIW report makes clear the excellent provision and support to our young people. The commitment of the partnership between Llamau and the Vale of Glamorgan ensures that we do all that we can. In doing so, enables young people’s lives to be changed for the better.”
