Outstanding Abbeyford celebrates Ofsted result in style

Article date: 5 July 2022

Towards the end of last year, the St Helens Borough Council-run facility in Windle - which provides respite for children and young people with complex health, learning and social communication needs - was awarded its fourth consecutive 'Outstanding' Ofsted rating in as many years. 

Key findings found highly effective safeguarding practice in place and that the home - which has continued to provide an exceptional level of care throughout the coronavirus pandemic - provides a warm and nurturing environment where children can thrive. 

In addition, the inspector was full of praise for the senior leadership team which inspires a strong and nurturing child-centred culture, supporting staff who have often gone above and beyond by completing tasks outside their remit to support children and their families during a global pandemic.   

For the first time since 2019, staff and service users - together with their parents and carers - were able to mark the occasion with an afternoon tea garden party which saw Spiderman swing by to join Disney Princess, Belle - as well as an array of farmyard animals and donkeys - for a day of fun. 

St Helens Borough Council's Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, Councillor Nova Charlton, was among those in attendance to show her support. 

Councillor Charlton said: "Abbeyford's Ofsted garden parties are always a brilliant occasion so, it's fantastic to see the event return and an honour to be invited down to celebrate this special achievement with the children and young people, their families and carers - and of course, the staff who work tirelessly to maintain such high standards of care. 

"As a council, our first priority is to ensure all children and young people have a positive start in life and fantastic facilities like Abbeyford are a shining example of what can be achieved."    

Speaking of his pride, Abbeyford Service Manager, Paul Spencer, said: "My sincere thanks go to the staff team here at Abbeyford who continue to offer an excellent service provision to children and young people in the borough of St Helens. 

"Maintaining Outstanding Ofsted status is without doubt challenging for the team - however due to their passion, enthusiasm, and commitment, they continue to aspire and achieve. I am very proud to be part of such an outstanding team and to be involved in supporting children and their families in St Helens."