A children's home in Lancaster has been handed its 15th consecutive 'outstanding' rating from Ofsted.
Alexandra (known as Alex) House in Lancaster has been hailed for providing 'highly effective services that consistently exceed the standard of good.'
The four-bedroom building offers overnight breaks for children with severe and profound disabilities.
This is the 15th time the Lancashire County Council children's home has been handed the top Ofsted verdict in all criteria.
Inspectors last visited the home in late February for two days, when five children were present.
They said, following the visit: "The actions of the children's home contribute to significantly improved outcomes and positive experiences for children and young people who need help, protection and care."
Highlighting the overall experiences and progression of children and young people, they added: "Children enjoy their short breaks and receive exceptional care form a stable and experienced staff team.
‘’Children develop positive, trusting relationships with staff who care about them. Staff create a nurturing and calm environment where children thrive."
Their report singled out the verdict of a family member, who praised the 'really nice transition' which was 'done at our pace.'
The report also highlighted excellent communication with families, good multi agency working and variety of communication aids like visual aids and signing, which they said 'helps the children to learn, form social relationships, express feelings and participate in every day activities.'
Help and protection for children and young people were praised, with inspectors finding the facility 'homely and welcoming,' and 'personalised to meet each child's individual needs during their stay.'
Meanwhile, the report also found 'comprehensive risk management plans,' children's various health needs being understood and well managed by staff, excellent support and safe and effective recruitment procedures.
Leaders and managers were praised, with inspectors highlighting their good understanding of the home's strengths and areas for development and 'close oversight' of progress and monitoring, while comprehensive and accurate children's records, and regular support, supervision and guidance for staff were also praised.
John Paul Adamson, manager of Alexandra House, said: "I am so proud of the team and children for showcasing proudly to two inspectors all the hard work and fun that goes into providing meaningful and nurturing breaks to our wonderful children with complex needs.
"Families feel consistently confident to take a true break in their caring role knowing young people are somewhere they want to be with friends and care givers they want to spend time with – Ofsted agreeing with this is the cherry on the icing of the cake."
County Councillor Simon Evans, cabinet member for Children and Families, said: "I am delighted that the team at Alexandra House has been recognised for their outstanding work in looking after all these incredible children.
"It's no secret that one of the best facilities in the county is right here in Lancashire and I'm so proud that they've been rated outstanding once again."
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