One of our children’s homes, Barwick House, has been awarded an ‘Outstanding’ rating in its latest Ofsted inspection conducted on 12 and 13 November 2024.

This marks the third consecutive ‘Outstanding’ rating for the home, reflecting its unwavering commitment to providing exceptional care and support to children.

The Ofsted report highlights the nurturing environment at Barwick House, noting that “children flourish because they are provided with nurturing care from dedicated staff who know them well.” Children’s well-being is central to the home’s practice, with professionals describing an ethos of “aspiration, hope, and positivity.”

Children’s voices are actively sought and valued, with the report stating, “Children’s views and wishes are paramount.” One child expressed their satisfaction, saying, “I love it here.” The home’s use of research and the principles of ‘hygge’ contributes to creating a warm and comfortable atmosphere.

Educational achievements are a significant focus, with children making “exceptional progress” in their learning. Feedback from education providers is overwhelmingly positive, recognising that children at Barwick House thrive.

Family relationships are also prioritised, with staff supporting children to have meaningful and regular time with their families. A family member commented, “Staff are amazing and like a second family to us.”

Safety is a top priority, with children reporting that they feel safe and secure. The report notes, “Children have a trusted adult who they can talk to about any concerns,” and staff are “consistently responsive to the children’s needs.”

The effectiveness of leaders and managers is also commended, with the report highlighting their dedication to the well-being of children and their ability to create a supportive and nurturing environment.

Dove Adolescent Services is proud of Barwick House’s achievements and remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of care for the children and young people they support.

Stacy Cooper and Leanne Smith, Operational Directors for Dove Adolescent Services, said: “We are amazingly proud of Lisa and her team. The report reads fantastic and represents the quality care that is being provided. The young people in placement are settled and continue to progress and achieve within their individualised care plans. What an outstanding result.”

Congratulations to everyone involved.

Lisa Sykes, Registered Manager of Barwick House, said: “Achieving ‘outstanding’ in our recent inspection was a massive achievement for myself and the team. Having the teams’ commitment to the young people recognised in such a positive way is testament to the hard work the team undertake every day, and they should all feel very proud of their contribution of which they are very deserving!”

Ryan Lauder, Registered Manager of High View, has been recognised for being “reflective and taking a systematic approach. He supports staff to contemplate their own behaviours and responses, and how these impact on children.”

Delighted at the report, Ryan said: “This is another great outcome for the home. The staff team and young people have done really well and we are all pleased that this has been recognised. Onwards and upwards for this year!”

Stacy and Leanne, Operational Directors, congratulated their team: “The exceptional quality care which is provided across our organisation and specifically the three homes which have achieved an ‘Outstanding’ is something we are extremely proud of. A fantastic achievement for the Managers and teams involved. Well done and keep up the good work!”

The individual Ofsted reports can be viewed here:
Pennine View
Barwick House
High View

At Dove, we are always looking for passionate people who can make a difference to the lives of young people to join our team. If you would like to find out more about our vacancies and what it is like to work at Dove, visit our Careers page.