Downham House has received a ‘good’ rating from Ofsted.
Downham House is a registered children’s home which provides short breaks for children with severe learning disabilities and complex needs.
Owned and run by Plymouth City Council, the breaks provided by Downham House are vital and much valued by children and their families. Thirteen children currently enjoy a regular short break at the home.
An Ofsted inspection in March 2025 found the home is ‘good’ in all areas, including the overall experiences and progress of children and young people, how well they are helped and protected, and the effectiveness of leaders and managers. The report builds on the last inspection in December 2023 when the home was also judged as good.
Inspectors found that children really enjoy their short breaks at Downham House and are excited for their visits. Children are nurtured and are supported to achieve, with activities designed to suit their individual interests and needs.
The inspectors received ‘overwhelmingly positive’ feedback throughout the inspection, with one parent commenting that the managers and staff are like ‘an extended part of their family’.
Councillor Sally Cresswell, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Apprenticeships, said: “We’re delighted to receive a second good Ofsted rating for Downham House.
“I must say a huge thank you to the staff for all their hard work but also to the parents and young people who benefit from short breaks at Downham House and who provided such fantastic feedback about their experiences.
“We’re committed to providing the best possible support to children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities. Short breaks are absolutely vital to help families to remain living together by giving parents and carers a break, which they can enjoy knowing their children are safe, well cared for and having lots of fun.”
Inspectors noted that managers have ‘worked hard to embed reflection and learning across all aspects of children’s care to directly improve children’s experiences and progress’. The home has positive links with partners in education, health and social care, which ensures that there is a coordinated approach to the care that children receive.
The report also highlights that staff understand, monitor and respond to children’s specific health needs.
The full Ofsted report can be read here.