We are thrilled to announce the official opening of Phoenix Grove, the first of four new community-based children’s homes in Wiltshire.
After receiving successful registration with Ofsted, Phoenix Grove is now ready to welcome up to four young people, helping them to stay closer to local schools, friends, and support networks.
This marks an important milestone in our ten-year partnership with Wiltshire Council which will lead to the creation of three children’s homes and one assessment home, providing up to 12 new residential care placements for children and young people in the county.
Wiltshire Council is funding the refurbishment of each property, while Horizon oversees both the renovations and daily operations. The shared goal is to create therapeutic environments that foster growth, build confidence, and provide enriching experiences for every young person.
The second home in this initiative, Luna House, is set to open later this year, with the third and fourth homes coming soon, located in the southern part of Wiltshire.
Phoenix Grove has been thoughtfully renovated, boasting modern amenities including a welcoming kitchen and dining area, a cosy lounge, a games room equipped with a pool table, and a spacious garden with an annex for arts and crafts. Outdoor features include a trampoline, swing set, and garden planters where young people can grow their own vegetables.
Amanda Cunningham, CEO of Horizon, said:
“We are honoured to partner with Wiltshire Council on this vital initiative. At Horizon, we believe every young person deserves a stable, nurturing environment where they can grow and thrive. Our new home is warm, comfortable, and inviting, providing children with the solid foundation they need to build brighter futures.
By establishing these homes within Wiltshire, we can ensure that children stay within their communities, which is crucial for their emotional and educational development. Continuity is key for children experiencing disruption, and we are proud to provide that stability here.
This new approach and partnership model could enable us to expand our reach and enhance our services across the country, profoundly impacting the lives of more young people. By showcasing the benefits of this collaboration, we aim to demonstrate how Horizon can support and partner with local authorities to deliver community-based solutions, transforming opportunities for young people in their area.”
Laura Mayes, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, said:
“While we always try to place children in care with foster carers, for various reasons this is not always possible. In these situations, a children’s home can provide a safe home where young people can feel secure and are close to their education, friends, and communities.
The homes are a great example of how we are investing in services for young people to give them the best possible outcomes. It also demonstrates how we are investing in services to save money in the long term and safeguard our services for the future. By creating residential homes here in Wiltshire not only do we give young people the best possible setting in which to thrive, we also ensure our available budgets are used to maximum effect within the county of Wiltshire.
“We are pleased to be working with Horizon Care and Education Group to deliver this exciting new approach to care in Wiltshire. These are our young people and we want them to continue to be within our communities.”
Horizon Care & Education Group is currently recruiting for several exciting roles to join their dynamic new residential team in Wiltshire. If you’re passionate about making a difference in the lives of young people, please consider applying and be part of this transformative journey.
Learn more about our children’s homes.
