Tadley children's home rated 'outstanding' by Ofsted

Squirrel Lodge, in Tadley and run by Amegreen Children’s Services, received the top rating in all inspection categories: overall experiences and progress of children, how well they are helped and protected, and the effectiveness of leaders and managers.

Rachel Redgwell, director of Amegreen Children’s Services, said: "We are incredibly proud of the team at Squirrel Lodge, who have worked so hard to achieve an 'outstanding' Ofsted for the second year running.

The team at Squirrel Lodge, in Tadley. (Image: Amegreen Children’s Services)

"As well as providing a warm, safe and nurturing environment, the team is helping children to achieve goals they may once have felt were beyond them. That’s incredibly rewarding.

"We remain committed and dedicated to providing ‘local homes for local children’ and support government agendas in children remaining close to their families, communities, schools and what matters to children and families the most.

"We are thankful to be supported by some brilliant social workers who champion their children everyday."

The five-bedroom home supports children and young people aged eight to 18 with complex social, emotional and mental health needs.

Ofsted praised Squirrel Lodge for delivering "significantly improved outcomes and positive experiences for children and young people who need help, protection and care".

Inspectors described the environment as nurturing and homely, crediting the team for helping children "flourish".

Managers at Squirrel Lodge were described by Ofsted as "inspiring and proactive".

The report stated: "Their passion and commitment to the progress and outcomes of the children are evident in their discussions about the home, and successes are celebrated.

"They are supported by a committed and proactive team of adults who share their vision of wanting the best for the children in their care.

"Children make exceptional progress at the home and have positive experiences.

"The adults know them well and ensure that the children have access to the support that they need when they need it.

"This helps the children to make progress and to achieve independence."

One visiting professional said the home feels warm and welcoming every time they walk through the door, reflecting the skill and commitment of the team caring for the children, while a family member said: "I have nothing bad I can say about them; they are fantastic."

Squirrel Lodge has been rated 'outstanding' in all three inspection categories for the second year running despite only opening in January 2024.