A CHILDREN'S care home in Largs scored top marks for its excellent staff and service.

Arran Villa, which is run by Kibble Education and Care Centre, has been described as "sector-leading" by inspectors from the Care Inspectorate during its unannounced visits in August this year.

The facility, on the south side of the town, provides an early intervention residential service for up to five at-risk children, aged between five and 12 years, received an excellent score - the highest accolade an organisation can get - for its support of children and young people's rights and wellbeing.

The report stated that staff were fully aware of the needs of the children which would lead to positive outcomes for each child attending.

It continued: "The service understood the importance in letting children play, and explore their environment in a natural way, allowing them to understand their own limitations.

"Staff knew what exactly was required of them to ensure safety, and to promote independence. Interventions were the least restrictive, this led to some great outcomes in reducing the frequency and duration of incidents for young people."

It was also found that staff received a high level of training to deliver a trauma-informed approach. They also encouraged the child's family members and external professionals to help support the young person during sessions,

The report continued: "We heard that this helped parents feel more involved, and helped them to understand the best way to support their child.

"It was clear that family life was prioritised where possible for all young people, for parents it made them feel valued and respected."

And when it came to the young people attending the service, inspectors found that they had access to excellent advocacy and were involved in participation events. 

"Young people told us they loved it at Arran Villa. One young person said it felt like a big family here, something that all staff members too spoke about. Young people and staff shared close tactile relationships and shared messages of love in young people's terms."

Kibble has been approached for comment.