Plans to develop a centre of excellence for children in the Rhondda Cynon Taff area of Wales have won backing from care experts, social workers, teachers, local residents and young people.

Consultations began four months ago for Rhondda Cynon Taff County Borough Council's proposals for a new community home with improved facilities and higher ratios of staff.

The result is the Children's Resource Centre, a 'modern' community home for ten to 12 children reflecting the very latest thinking on the best types of child care.

The plans for the new home will mean a cut in the number of care home places in the borough but the quality of care children in the homes should increase.

The home will also set up a new outreach service for the young people and their families. There may also be services for other children's homes and local foster carers, as well as for families in need of help.

Council Leader Councillor Pauline Jarman said: "All involved agree this is the best way forward for these young people. Our aim - right from the start - was to invest extra funds and to make sure that in modernising our children's services we ensured better quality care."