Two new homes in Lincoln and Louth will improve the lives of young people in care by keeping them close to their local community and support networks.
Robin House in Lincoln and Riverhead House in Louth will provide young people with a homely environment in which they can be supported and thrive. Each home can provide accommodation for up to four young people. As well as bedrooms, both homes offer lounge areas, bathrooms, dining rooms and outdoor areas for the children to enjoy. There are also bedrooms and office space for the on-site staff supporting the young people.
Cllr Mrs Patricia Bradwell OBE, executive member for children’s services, said: “Over the last few years, we’ve seen a rising number of young people needing care, so it’s important we have enough accommodation here in Lincolnshire for those who need it. To that end, the council has invested £1.5m in the creation of these two new children’s homes.
“The new homes will provide high-quality facilities for children in care and will mean that fewer children will need to be placed in homes outside the county. That will ensure these young people remain close to their local community and existing support networks, leading to better outcomes.”
The projects received match-funding from the Department for Education. Robin House was formerly the home of Strut House, a short breaks facility that moved to a new-and-improved location last year, while Riverhead House is a brand-new building. The construction work was carried out by Lindum Group Ltd.
Ron Adamson, Lindum Group Construction Manager, said: “We are thrilled to be able to supply the county council with two brilliant facilities that will help to protect and support some of the most vulnerable children in our county.
“We have been able to deliver a high-quality living accommodation at Riverhead House, using the latest technologies to make the home as carbon efficient as possible, whilst also providing a high spec, modern living space for the children.”