The Birches

The Birches in Coventry provides respite care for up to seven children with learning disabilities and additional physical health needs.

Parents told us they felt their children were safe at The Birches. Staff understood how to keep children safe and how to report any issues of concern. We found that there were comprehensive risk assessment systems in place to keep children and the environment safe.

There were systems in place to ensure an effective service.  Children and staff could give feedback and influence the running of the service via daily meetings. Surveys and audits measured the quality and effectiveness of the service. Staff undertook training to ensure they were competent and confident in their work with children.

Children who use services were involved in developing their care plans and risk assessments. Children were complimentary about staff and we saw children were treated with dignity and respect.

Staff felt supported by their teams and line managers and used systems for giving feedback on the service. Staff told us that they had direct contact with their managers but did not meet Trust executive team members.

Children we met were not detained under the Mental Health Act 1983; therefore we have not referred to the systems in place for monitoring the application of the Act in this report.