First of new children's homes set to open soon

Four newly renovated homes will house up to 12 children and young people

The first of four new community-based children's homes is set to open in Wiltshire.

The new homes will help provide places for up to 12 children and young people, helping them to stay in the borough and near local schools, friends and support networks.

Wiltshire Council is creating the homes as part of a 10-year partnership with Horizon Care and Education Group.

The first of the new homes, Phoenix Grove, will provide placements for up to four young people.

Phoenix Grove has a games room with a pool table

Wiltshire Council said it has been renovated to a high standard with a modern kitchen and dining area, lounge, games rooms with a pool table, and a large garden with a separate annex building for group activities and arts and crafts.

There is also a trampoline, swing set and outdoor planters where young people can grow their own vegetables.

The second home, Lunar, is due to open later this year. The third and fourth property will be based in the south of the county.

The first two homes are 50% match-funded by Wiltshire Council and the Department for Education.

The third home is fully funded by Wiltshire Council and the fourth home is fully funded by private care provider Horizon Care and Education Group.

The homes have been developed in partnership with Wiltshire Council and Horizon Care & Education Group

The homes will also be operated by Horizon Care and Education Group.

Laura Mayes, cabinet member for children's services, said: “While we always try to place children in care with foster carers, for various reasons this is not always possible.

"In these situations, a children’s home can provide a safe home where young people can feel secure and are close to their education, friends and communities.

"By creating residential homes here in Wiltshire not only do we give young people the best possible setting in which to thrive, but we also save money on expensive private or out of county placements."