Report shock
A care home for vulnerable youths in Rutherglen received a glowing report from the Care Inspectorate just days before teenagers staged a dramatic protest on the roof.
The girls climbed out of a window and on to the roof of the Burnside property.
A care home for vulnerable youths in Rutherglen received a glowing report from the Care Inspectorate just days before teenagers staged a dramatic protest on the roof.
The girls climbed out of a window and on to the roof of the Burnside property on August 1.
Emergency services rushed to the scene and shut access to the quiet residential street before talking the girls down.
But it has emerged four residents at the home told inspectors that staff and managers were “supportive” on July 29 - just two days before the chaotic event.
Although staff and leadership were not assessed during the unannounced inspection, the report states the quality of care and support and environment were ‘very good’.
It says: “Young people described good relationships with members of the staff team. All those we spoke with confirmed that they had a trusted adult they could confide in about personal issues and concerns.
“They also confirmed that there were always enough staff available to help them with daily routines, developing living skills and attending meetings and personal appointments.
“All of the young people we spoke with said they found staff and managers to be friendly and supportive while helping them develop their personal plan.”
The inspection report, published last week, is in stark contrast to concerns raised by neighbours in August following the rooftop protest.
Three householders living next to the home said they had grave concerns about the management of the facility.
Neighbours reportedly saw the youths shout and swear at staff, vandalise the home, and sit in the garden in the early hours of the morning.
They said the noise and continual police presence was becoming unbearable.
One neighbour who did not want to be named said: “I think the concept of supporting young people to live independently is right and I would hate to think any child didn’t have somewhere to go, or have someone to talk to. But they are taking them out of their environment to a place they don’t know.”
Brian Hill, head of placements at Inspire Scotland, said the organisation was committed to supporting young people to achieve their potential while living in the community.
He said: “The one thing that all these young people have in common is they have been let down by an adult at some point in their lives.
“We are trying to create something that represents a family home.
“We understand there are concerns, but the reality is what we have been doing has been graded by the Care Inspectorate. They make sure the place is safe, that there are enough staff and that we are doing what we are supposed to be doing.”
A spokesman for the Care Inspectorate said: “The care home notified us properly of the incident involving two young people, and they took appropriate action to ensure that the situation was resolved and that the young people are cared for the right way which keeps them and others safe.
“The safety and well-being of young people who access care is always our first priority and we work closely with services to ensure that the care they provide is of a high standard, meets young people’s needs and respects their rights.
“Anyone with a concern about a care service should contact the Care Inspectorate, anonymously if needed, on 0345 600 9527.”