Calleydown Shortbreak Children’s Home in New Addington retains its ‘Good’ Ofsted rating for a fourth year, praised for its safe, caring environment and tailored support for children with complex needs.
Croydon’s Calleydown Shortbreak Children’s Home has once again been rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted, maintaining the standard for the fourth consecutive year. The residential home, located in New Addington and run by Croydon Council, provides short stays for children and young people with severe learning difficulties and complex needs.
The stays at Calleydown offer a vital lifeline for families – allowing children to enjoy enriching experiences in a safe, nurturing setting while giving carers much-needed time for themselves.
In its latest inspection, Ofsted rated the home ‘Good’ across all areas. Inspectors praised staff for creating a warm and playful environment where children are supported, understood and kept safe.
“Staff understand the children’s ways of communicating and give children choices, acknowledging their wishes and feelings,” the report noted, adding that transitions into and out of the home were well planned and tailored to individual needs.
The inspection found that staff work closely with schools, parents, and health services to support each child’s development, including preparing them for adult social care when the time comes. The home offers activities like football and singing, and features a sensory room, soft-play area, and an adapted garden.
The council recently refurbished Calleydown’s kitchen and replaced flooring and furnishings to ensure the environment remains high-quality and homely.
Kikeloma Iluyemi, whose son Adeboye has used Calleydown’s services for nearly 10 years, said:
“He has always loved going there and has always been treated with love, care and compassion. Calleydown has been God sent to me as a parent and both of us will certainly miss their care, support and professionalism.”
Angela Lewis Igiran, Deputy Home Manager and a long-serving team member of 19 years, said:
“Calleydown is more than a short break children’s home – it’s a home from home. Our dedicated staff provide outstanding care with professionalism and warmth. Our commitment to excellence ensures peace of mind for families and the highest levels of satisfaction.”
Executive Mayor Jason Perry welcomed the news:
“I welcome this ‘Good’ report by Ofsted, which recognises the consistently high standard of care provided at Calleydown. These short stay breaks give children with very complex needs the opportunity to thrive in a safe and enjoyable setting, while offering families essential respite. I want to thank and congratulate the staff and management on another successful inspection.”
