Merton’s children’s home Brightwell is celebrating its latest Ofsted rating of ‘Outstanding’ – the fourth ‘Outstanding’ rating in as many visits.

Delivering a specialist respite service for children with disabilities and their families, Brightwell’s consistent high ranking puts it in the top 9% of children’s homes in the country.

Brightwell houses a variety of accessible spaces including a multifunctional sensory room which can be turned from a soothing room with aromatherapy, music and a galaxy of stars to a UV disco where children can sing and dance without worrying about disturbing the neighbours.

Using innovative methods to entertain children, the facility offers a fully child focused service, which is flexible and attentive to details. The unannounced Ofsted visit in December 2009 followed ‘Outstanding’ ratings at every visit since winter 2008.

The Ofsted report said ‘There continues to be excellent child-centred behaviour management systems in place which serve to promote the well being of the children. The overall quality rating is outstanding’.

Merton Council cabinet member for children’s services Councillor Debbie Shears said:
“I am extremely pleased once again to see Merton’s children’s home rated as ‘outstanding’. This reflects the hard work that all the staff put in and I would like to congratulate them for creating a safe and happy environment for our children. We take care to provide a high standard of services for children with disabilities and this fourth outstanding result in a row illustrates just that.”

For more information visit the Merton website at: http://www.merton.gov.uk/disabled-children