Children’s care home celebrates good rating

A DONNINGTON care home has received a ‘good’ Ofsted inspection, writes Declan Bowen.

Castle Gate care home was rated ‘good’ by Ofsted in May after successful refurbishments and support for children’s health and wellbeing.

The care home deals with children aged five to 11, who live with learning disabilities, autism, physical disabilities and complex needs.

It also provides support for children with medical conditions associated with learning disabilities such as epilepsy, asthma and heart conditions.

Castle Gate registered manager Michael Garrity said: “We are very pleased with the report. Not only does it highlight the safe and homely environment we strive to provide for our children, but also recognises our achievements and ongoing service development and improvement of the home.

“I would like to thank the staff team for their support, dedication and hard work throughout the last 12 months ensuring our children experience quality services at Castle Gate.”

Ofsted found the children to be well supported during their breaks, children say they feel safe and relaxed and inspectors saw children were confident to approach staff. Senior managers also carry out six-monthly reviews so that parents and the wider professional network can see any progress the children are making.

Dominic Boeck (Con, Aldermaston), West Berkshire’s executive member for children, young people and education, said: “We are delighted with this report. It reflects fully Castle Gate’s commitment to the children in their care and to the continuous work they’re doing to make sure they do even better.”