Plans approved for new children’s care homes in Cumberland

Cumberland Council is set to enhance local care options for children and young people following the approval of plans to transform two existing buildings into modern residential homes.

The Planning Committee granted the approval on 27th May, paving the way for the development of new children’s homes near Whitehaven and Carlisle.

This initiative forms part of the council’s £2.649 million capital investment programme to expand in-house care provision, adding three additional residential homes alongside a larger, improved facility.

The project aims to keep children safely within their local communities, reducing reliance on placements outside the county and maintaining proximity to their families, schools, friends, and other support networks.

By expanding local care services, Cumberland Council seeks to boost capacity and decrease dependency on external providers, offering better value for money.

This approach is expected to foster greater stability and improved outcomes for children in care while creating new job opportunities within the area.

Cllr Emma Williamson, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Children’s Services, expressed her satisfaction with the decision, stating:

“I’m delighted that our plans to strengthen and enhance care provision in Cumberland have been approved.”

“It has long been our ambition to develop modern, safe and nurturing homes within our communities, ensuring children and young people can access the support they need while staying close to the people and places that matter most to them.”

“Too many children currently experience homes outside of Cumberland. By investing in our own provision, we are taking an important step towards improving stability, outcomes and experiences for the young people we care for, while ensuring a more sustainable and cost-effective system for the future.”