Blackpool children's home set to shut permanently

The facility at 331 Bispham Road has been shut since the beginning of August last year while a review was carried out.

That has now concluded and councillors are being recommended to approve the permanent closure of the property.

It would then remain in council ownership while other uses for the building are explored.

A report to the council's executive committee says children in need of accommodation are now more likely to be placed in specialist foster care rather than being moved into children's homes.

It adds: "These placements are provided at a cost of between £1,000 and £1,200 per week, and, when they work well, offer stable family homes for children who have experienced and continue to experience the effects of

neglect and trauma.

"We are seeking to further develop this market in and around Blackpool and expand significantly the provision of foster care directly commissioned

with families by the local authority."

The premises were rated 'inadequate’ and described as 'chaotic’ by Ofsted following an inspection in June last year, with the absence of a permanent manager among the issues highlighted.

It was one of three council-run children’s homes and was designed to provide long-term accommodation for up to six young people.

The executive will consider the recommendation at its meeting on Monday February 10.