Work Starts on New Children's Home in South Tyneside

Work on a new children's home in South Tyneside got underway this week as the Council seeks to increase the number of residential places for cared-for children.

Initial works have started week at Grant Street in Jarrow where the first of two new children's homes will be built.

The new home in Jarrow - and another one to be built in Hebburn New Town - will provide the opportunity for eight cared-for children to continue living in South Tyneside.

The developments are aimed at improving the life chances and aspirations of cared-for children and are in line with the Council's ambitions to keep people healthy and well and make things fairer.

Combined with the drive to recruit additional foster carers in South Tyneside, providing additional homes for cared-for children will mean they can live closer to their support networks and help provide stability in their lives.

Councillor Adam Ellison, Lead Member for Children's and Families Social Care, said: "As a Local Authority we take our corporate parenting responsibility very seriously. We are absolutely committed to providing our cared-for children that with the best home and parenting experience we can offer, so they can attend school, see their families and enjoy time with their friends."

Speaking on behalf of the main contractor appointed to deliver the schemes, Surgo Construction, the firm's pre-construction director, Martin Blight said: "Surgo Construction Ltd are delighted to further their successful relationship with South Tyneside Council with the acquisition of two children's homes and an assessment centre within the Borough.

"We are especially pleased as the facilities will provide a much-needed resource for young people in the South Tyneside and surrounding areas. Surgo have recently successfully delivered the coroner's court refurbishment and the crematorium extension for the Council so this will once again provide a great opportunity for both parties to work together and provide a very positive outcome."

The Council is always looking for new foster carers. Anyone interested in fostering is asked to visit www.southtyneside.gov.uk/fostering or contact a fostering officer on (0191) 423 8500 or email fostering@southtyneside.gov.uk