New residential home in Weymouth for children with disabilities
Chestnut House is designed to replicate the atmosphere of a ‘real home’
Disabled children in Dorset needing residential care are set to be welcomed into a newly built children's home.
Chestnut House, a purpose-built home specifically designed for children who are disabled s, is soon to open its doors in Weymouth.
The building, designed to replicate the atmosphere of a ‘real home’, is now ready to offer a supportive environment for up to three children between the ages of 8 and 17 in need of longer-term residential care.
Daun Tattersall, residential service manager for children’s services, said:
"We've created a space with the young people in mind, incorporating interior decorations that also serve as sensory tools.
“We want every room to feel homely and inviting, and for this to be a really positive space where young people thrive for the time that they are with us.”
A major focus of Chestnut House is to prepare its young people for a successful transition into adulthood.
Whilst the children and young people are at Chestnut House, the staff will actively engage the young people in everyday activities, including cooking, and fun outings.
Cllr Byron Quayle, Dorset Council Portfolio Holder for Children, Education, and Early Help, commended the home during its opening, stating:
"It was brilliant to visit Chestnut House and witness all the hard work that's gone into making this a great place for young people to live."