Normanton children's home may become safe haven for young people with severe mental health problems

Wakefield Council has revealed plans to downsize two of its residential properties used to accommodate children in its care.

Two four-bed homes run by the authority are going to be "redesigned" as part of a £1m project, with both likely to be converted into two-bed facilities.

According to a report revealing the plans, one of the homes, on Benson Lane in Normanton, will be "Specifically focused on those young people who, for a time, require a deprivation of their liberty in order to keep them safe and help them to recover from trauma."

The council described the work, which will take around 18 months to complete, as "complex", but says the improvements will be in line with evidence suggesting smaller houses "more akin to a family home" are better for young people.

The idea will be discussed by the council's Cabinet at a meeting on Tuesday.

Councillor Margaret Isherwood, portfolio holder for children and young people said: "Our goal remains to provide the best possible services for our children, young people and their families.

"We are working closely with families to ensure that children and young people have the support they need.

"As part of the plans, we are looking at redesigning children’s homes as evidence shows that smaller homes are more beneficial for young people. We are also looking at how we can provide respite care at home and in local communities."

Local Democracy Reporting Service