Plans for new £1million children's home in Barnsley

Barnsley Council is proposing to spend £1million on a suitable property, with estimated running costs for the five-bed home to be £663,976 per year.

The cost for looked-after children being cared for out of the borough is on average £3,725 per week, and a report states that the authority could save around £304,524 per year for the children that a new home would accommodate.

The council say they will hold a public consultation to decide the location of the home, which has not yet been chosen.

Councillor Margaret Bruff, cabinet spokesman for children’s service, said: “This report is driven by what’s best for our children – keeping them in Barnsley so they are close to their families and friends, local services and the places they know.

“As part of the proposals, there will be a health and wellbeing support worker working across both children’s residential homes to ensure the level of care is excellent and that our young people are supported to have the best possible outcomes.

“I’m confident that the new home will be well-run and provide excellent care for children, while complementing our existing high performing children’s residential home.

“If the report is approved, we’ll consult with the Care 4 Us Council, to make sure the views of children in care and care leavers are incorporated into the planning and development of this residential home. Representatives will also be involved in the recruitment and selection of staff.”

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