Children’s home praised for outstanding leadership

A North East children’s home has received recognition for its “absolutely outstanding” leadership and “excellent” care.

Church View Children’s Home, in Kirkleatham, near Redcar, offers residential support for children with social, emotional, or mental health needs. 

Recently inspected by Ofsted, the home was rated “good” overall, with leadership described as “outstanding”.

Owned and managed by Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, Church View accommodates up to six children and works closely with outreach services for those living elsewhere. 

In particular, inspectors praised registered manager Laura Wedgewood (pictured below) for her “proactive” and “collaborative” approach, highlighting strong relationships with families and professionals.

Laura Wedgewood, registered manager at Church View Children’s Home

The report also noted the home’s success in providing trusted emotional support, promoting education and community involvement, while safeguarding children from risks such as exploitation and substance abuse and acting swiftly if children go missing.

Outreach services were also commended for helping improve family relationships.

Councillor Bill Suthers, cabinet member for children and families at Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, added: “This is an encouraging report that reflects the dedication and professionalism of the team at Church View. 

“The outstanding leadership and the strong relationships built with children and families are making a real difference. 

“One of the real positives of ‘in-house’ care by the council’s own dedicated professionals within our borough is it can help maintain a child’s relationship with their own communities and families when appropriate. 

“That can have enormous benefits for a child. We are proud of the service and the positive impact it is having on the lives of young people in our borough.”

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