A HOME that helps children with emotional, learning, social and behavioural difficulties has given an ‘Outstanding’ rating by Ofsted.

Laurus House, based in Basingstoke, is run by Calcot Services for Children and it caters for children who are for whatever reason, unable to live with their family.

The children are also at risk in relation to absconding, sexual exploitation, and other reason. They may have had several placement breakdowns, either from failed adoption or adoption.

A statement from Calcot Services for Children read: “Over the years we have worked tirelessly to develop our service to achieve placement goals and the best possible outcomes for our children and young people and these have been recognised and celebrated by placing authorities, Ofsted, their family, external agencies, awarding bodies and within the sector.

“This has been achieved by using therapeutic principles within our daily interactions, communications and practice within the homes and by using other recognised approaches such as cognitive behavioural therapies, psychodynamic counselling, observational studies, restorative justice principles, task-centred practice, crisis intervention, creative care planning and child focused individual care pathways.

“We will continue to rebuild the lives of vulnerable children enabling them to heal from neglect and trauma and onto a brighter future.”

It was not just from staff at the home that praised the service.

Basingstoke MP Maria Miller praised Laurus House. She said: “I was delighted to hear that Laurus House has been rated “Outstanding” by Ofsted. It is clear from the Ofsted report that this specialist residential home for children with learning disabilities is providing excellent, highly individualised care for young people, enabling them to make outstanding progress, including in their education and self-esteem.”

“It is very much to the credit of Natalie and her team that they have achieved this recognition by Ofsted within less than 18 months of opening the home.”