Oak House will support up to three children and young people from the borough in a safe and familiar environment. The home also has an annex, which can be used flexibly to help a young person build independence. Children who live in secure, safe and caring homes often progress faster. The introduction of a local in-borough children’s home will provide stable accommodation and enable the children to remain close to their support networks such as friends, family and school.
Children will be placed in the home based on several factors including individual needs and will be able to stay until they can step into foster care or move onto independence, depending on their circumstances and needs. The home will be staffed 24/7 to provide consistent care, guidance and support and will be managed by Achieving for Children who provide children’s services in the borough.
Oak House was developed in collaboration with Kickback, a group of children in care using their suggestions to create a warm environment in the home, including furniture, decor and other amenities. The name of the house was suggested by the group with plans to plant an oak sapling to honour it.
Councillor Amy Tisi, Cabinet Member for Children's Services, Education and Windsor, said: “I’m excited to see the opening of Oak House which will help give young people a welcoming and warm environment that they can thrive in. This continues the council’s work to give children and young people in the best start in life. I would like to thank Kickback and local residents for their support in bringing Oak House to life.”
The project was allocated £1.8 million in funding last year by the council and will reduce costs of alternative care for children and young people in the borough. The project reflects the Royal Borough’s commitment to providing high-quality, local provision for children in care.