Progress’ Stourbridge House Achieves Outstanding Ofsted Rating
Progress Children’s Services is celebrating a significant milestone as Stourbridge House, its residential short breaks home, has been awarded an outstanding rating in its latest Ofsted inspection. Conducted on January 21 and 22, 2025, the inspection highlighted the home’s dedication to providing high-quality care and exceptional outcomes for children with learning and physical disabilities.
The report praised the outstanding overall experiences and progress of children at Stourbridge House, noting that the home consistently exceeds good practice standards. Staff were commended for their dedication, nurturing approach, and commitment to creating a warm and inclusive environment where children feel valued and supported.
Key Highlights from the Inspection:
Outstanding Care and Progress: Children at Stourbridge House receive personalised, well-planned care that enhances their independence and life skills. The report highlighted how children are encouraged to make small but significant progress, such as preparing meals and engaging in community activities.
Effective Safeguarding Measures: Rated good, the home ensures children are well-protected through tailored risk assessments and vigilant supervision. While two isolated incidents of delayed reporting were noted, the management team responded swiftly with improved staff training and reinforcement of safeguarding protocols.
Exceptional Leadership and Management: Stourbridge House’s leadership was praised as outstanding, with inspectors highlighting the strong management structure, diligent oversight, and commitment to continuous improvement. The home’s use of research-based care approaches and sensory-based support strategies was particularly commended.
Meaningful Community Engagement: The home fosters strong connections between children and the community through participation in local events, outings, and initiatives that promote social inclusion. A notable example was a former resident returning to perform a magic show for staff as part of a charity fundraiser.
A Testament to Excellence
The latest Ofsted report underscores the unwavering commitment of Stourbridge House and its staff to providing a safe, nurturing, and enriching environment for children. Since its last full inspection in January 2024, where it received a good rating, the home has demonstrated remarkable progress, earning its well-deserved outstanding status.
Kimberley Williams, the Registered Manager of Stourbridge House, expressed pride in the team’s efforts: “This recognition is a testament to the dedication and passion of our staff. We are committed to continuing our work to ensure every child’s experience here is positive, fulfilling, and empowering.”
Progress Children’s Services remains steadfast in its mission to deliver the highest standards of care and support to children and families. Stourbridge House’s achievement sets a benchmark for excellence and reaffirms the organisation’s role as a leader in residential childcare services.
Congratulations to the outstanding team at Stourbridge House, Progress Children’s Services and All of Progress.