Break’s Nelson Lodge, based in Long Stratton, has a service level agreement with Norfolk County Council to provide short breaks for up to six children from Norfolk aged five to 18 with learning disabilities, autism, challenging behaviours and associated physical disabilities. The staff at the Lodge work closely and effectively with NCC managers and staff.
An “Outstanding” rating is very difficult to achieve and indicates ‘a service that significantly exceeds minimum requirements’. The Ofsted inspector examines the home environment, interviews staff, young people, parents, social workers and schools to get an all round picture. The full inspection lasted two days.
Nelson Lodge was praised for its equality and diversity - a key strength of the home and the great importance the staff place on gaining children’s views and encouraging them to make informed choices. The report states that at Nelson Lodge, disabled children are supported to access a wide range of pursuits and activities. Staff actively encourage equality of opportunity, ensuring that children enjoy social experiences and that they have a varied and stimulating range of trips and activities regardless of their disabilities. These activities include go-karting, beach trips, face painting and bowling.
Quotes from parents included, “The staff are amazing. They show true dedication to the children and care for them as a parent would do and want”, “They work hard to help my child develop and grow”.
Mel Julier registered manager said, “The whole team is really pleased to have their hard work recognised. We are thrilled that Ofsted has rated the services we provide to the disabled children in our care as “Outstanding”. We will continue to work in a way that puts the children at the very centre of everything we do”.
Staff continue to raise funds for equipment and activities and are presently seeking help to redesign the garden to better suit the needs of the young people. A Masquerade Ball is also being held in Norwich on Saturday 3 March 2012 to raise funds for Nelson Lodge. If you are interested in helping with the garden project, helping to raise funds generally or would like further information about the Masquerade ball, please contact the Break Fundraising Team on 01603 670107 .
The Nelson Lodge staff team also operate a separate, independently registered, short breaks service at Fritton Lakes for Suffolk County Council funded by Great Yarmouth and Waveney Primary Care Trust. This service has also been rated “Outstanding” by Ofsted.