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Firm offers reassurance on children's home plans
Mar 2, 2010
OFFICIALS behind the proposal to open a children’s home in Cockfield have said they are happy to respond to locals’ concerns about its presence in the village.
Plans to open the home in the village have been submitted to Durham County Council by Belfast-based Bettercare Keys Limited.
In its application, the company has applied to open a Class C2 children’s residential care home at Highcroft on The Green.
A spokeswoman for the company said that the home would be a small specialist education and residential facility which would provide much needed care for children in the North East.
On Bettercare Keys’ website the company says is has developed a wide range of dedicated services to help young people address and overcome negative influences in their lives and achieve positive outcomes.
Some of the problems it provides help with include substance abuse, emotional behavioural difficulties, offending behaviours and sexual exploitation.
The chairman of Cockfield Parish Council, Peter Wood, said he would take plans with ‘a pinch of salt’ but has asked Bettercare Keys to the next monthly meeting.
He said: “We have heard that various things are coming into the village. We will look into it but can’t really comment. We don’t want to hype things until we find out more about it.”
Cllr Pauline Charlton said that she would be consulting with local residents to find out their opinions.
A spokeswoman for the Key group said: “The service will be compliant with all the relevant regulatory bodies including Ofsted.
“The home will be staffed by well-trained, experienced professionals and will provide a safe and therapeutic living environment for children there.
“We hope that these vulnerable children will be well-cared for and hope they will become part of a caring, positive and supportive local community.
“We are always happy to respond to concerns and help reassure neighbours.”