Home from home for children
by Angus Young

A new style of children's home has opened in Hull.

Paid for with cash from the Kingston Communications windfall, the purpose-built complex in Bransholme is designed to mirror normal family homes.

In particular, it aims to provide help and support to younger children to prepare them for life with foster families.

The building, at Kinloss Garth, features two separate houses each for up to four children.

The two houses are connected by a central reception area providing conference and meeting areas, as well as living accommodation for new families being introduced to the children.

Jan Didrichsen, social services director of Kingston upon Hull City Council, said: "The emphasis will be on creating a normal family home where children can feel safe and secure and enjoy being part of the community.

"Like any good parents, the staff will support children to attend local schools, local activities and receive local health care."

Councillor Danny Brown, cabinet member with responsibility for social inclusion, said: "This is an exciting opportunity to help Hull children in need of care and protection to enjoy a settled family life."

Foster carers will work in partnership with residential social workers to provide permanent homes.

The city council is placing more emphasis on fostering and adoption in a bid to reduce the number of children in care.

According to the latest figures, there are 683 Hull youngsters in care. Of these, 437 are in foster care.

This story was first published by the Hull Daily Mail.

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