Plans for 24-hour children's care home at Sunderland property

The proposed Ofsted-regulated home in Sunderland Street, in the Houghton area, would provide accommodation and round-the-clock support for up to three children and young people aged seven to 17.

Planning documents say the home would care for children where the local authority has decided they cannot live with their parent or parents, with support workers helping them to “live a normal family life”.

Up to three members of staff would be on duty at any one time, with the home staffed 24 hours a day on a rolling rota.

Their role would include day-to-day care of the children, helping them become more independent and taking them to school, social activities and health appointments, as well as supporting them with homework and other educational needs.

The applicant’s supporting statement adds there would be “limited visitors at the property”, with contact with close family members arranged by prior appointment.

Social workers and other professionals would visit the property every eight weeks to “check living conditions and progression”.

The application argues that there would be “no material change to the living conditions of occupiers within the neighbouring properties because of the change of use” and noted staff training includes “maintaining low-noise practices and being mindful of neighbours”.

An accompanying planning statement said that on-street parking is available but that staff would not necessarily have to own a car due to the close proximity of bus stops.

The planning statement adds: “It should also be noted that visitors would only visit during the day, and only staff would use the parking spaces available, and therefore, there will not be no increase with vehicle movements to and from these parking spaces, than that of an extended family.”

A decision on the plan is expected following a consultation.

For more information, visit the council’s planning portal website and search for reference 26/01899/FUL.