A children’s residential care home in Howwood has been awarded the highest possible rating by the Care Inspectorate following an unannounced inspection.
Hallhill Cottage, run by Kibble, received an overall score of ‘6 – Excellent’ for its care and residential services. The rating is rarely awarded.
The cottage is home to four children, aged from five years old. It will support them through their childhood and into early adulthood, up to the age of 21.
The inspection, carried out by the Care Inspectorate, also recognised the successful move of young people from Arran Villa in Largs to the new setting in Howwood.
For children in care, change can be difficult. Staff supported the young people through every stage of the move, from packing their belongings to settling into their new home. Several have since joined local clubs and activities in the area.
One child found the move particularly challenging because of a fear of being separated from his possessions. Staff helped him pack his belongings himself and travel with them so he felt more secure.
Other young people spoke about how much it meant to pack their belongings in proper boxes. Before coming into care, some had moved between placements with their things in plastic bags. Staff said small details like this can help build a sense of safety and self-worth.
Dan Johnson, Executive Director and Lead Forensic Psychologist with Kibble’s Specialist Intervention Services, said: “The relationships that exist between children, young people and the adults that support them is the foundation for everything that we do. It’s these genuine, trusting connections that give children the stability and confidence to adjust to change, even when this can feel very unsettling.”
The Care Inspectorate report praised the charity’s trauma-informed approach. Inspectors stated: “Staff demonstrate a deep understanding of trauma, tailoring strategies to each child and constantly reviewing support to ensure it remains effective.”
Inspectors also noted that children are kept safe, supported by detailed care plans, and cared for by knowledgeable and responsive staff.
Independent advocacy from Who Cares? Scotland was also highlighted. One young person said: “My Who Cares? worker comes to spend time with me. She goes to meetings and talks about me and what I want.”
Jim Gillespie, Chief Executive Officer of Kibble, said: “The achievement of the team at Hallhill Cottage, the Specialist Intervention Services and everyone else across the Kibble network who contributes to the shared understanding and trauma-informed model of support is testament to the care and dedication evident at every touch point at Kibble.
“The expertise our teams bring every day, not only provide stability and care, but also opens up positive pathways for these children, helping them to thrive now and in the future. This has been recognised by the Care Inspectorate which further reinforces what I already knew about the team we are building at Kibble.”
Kibble said the success of Hallhill Cottage reflects its wider mission to support care-experienced young people and help them build positive futures.
