Barnardo's Scotland 'stepping stone' care home service, Northern Lights, at Scaniport near Inverness, praised by Care Inspectorate
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A rural care home service for young people near Inverness has been warmly commended by inspectors.
Northern Lights, based in Scaniport village, two miles from the city, is run by the charity Barnardo’s Scotland.
It caters for up to five young people and children in a modern, detached house set in large garden grounds.
The service, registered since February 2011, helps return young people from care settings to the Highlands, nearer to family and social circles, and supports their transition to after-care services.
There is also a focus on engaging individuals in employment and training opportunities.
The Care Inspectorate, visiting at short notice in late October, looked at how young people’s wellbeing was supported and how well care and support was planned. Both areas of service were judged to be “very good” in the grading.
The report stated: “There was clear evidence of compassionate care within a nurturing approach which promoted dignity, respect, and inclusion in decision-making.
“Young people spoke about positive relationships with staff, feeling safe and supported to rebuild relationships and improvements in their emotional and physical wellbeing.”
A “few areas” were identified for improvement, but could easily complement current work under way to improve the service.
All of the young people were living voluntarily at Northern Lights.
One young person told the inspectors: “They ask how I feel... I’ve been in a few places and I know the difference.”
Another said: “They are always there if we need them.”
The removal of reminders that the care home was an “institution” was requested by the young people and respected by staff.
Photos of staff and young people out on activities, celebrating achievements and milestones in young people’s lives were evident in each room and on a large photo mural at the entrance.
The management team were also complimented on the significant improvements brought to the service over the last two years.
