Work has completed on a new modern, fully adapted, energy efficient home for young people and their families, for disability short breaks.
Limetree Short Breaks in East Hull is a state-of-the-art, carbon-neutral design, whilst providing an inviting and homely atmosphere for meeting the specialist needs of children in the city.
The new build provision supports up to six children at a time and replaces the existing Limetree Court, which was previously graded as ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted.
Parents and children were involved in the design of the new building throughout, so the environment is something the young people have helped create, and the design will meet the needs of the children and young people staying there. The children chose the herbs to grow in the garden, and even helped with the design of the kitchen.
The project was funded by Hull City Council and the Department for Education (DfE) and was built by Ashcourt Construction Ltd.
The build was made possible through a partnership with Lovell Homes, who completed a land swap with Hull City Council as part of the project. Design services were provided by Lovell Homes-appointed architect BDP.
Alongside Limetree Short Breaks, Tilia is also due to open in Winter 2024, which will provide permanency accommodation for up to two children. The council has purchased a property and is currently adapting it. Tilia will help develop the children’s independence skills and support the transition to adulthood. The two homes combined will be able to provide up to 56 short break overnight sessions each week.
Councillor Linda Tock, Portfolio Holder for Children’s Services at Hull City Council said: “The council is continuing to raise the standards of care for the city’s children, and becoming a leader in how children’s homes are delivered.
“The council has received recognition for its innovative approach in creating smaller homes in community settings. We want to continue to improve and grow the support and provision to children and families, and this short break facility will deliver the best, specifically designed provision for children and families who really need it.”
Tony Hatley is a Parent/Carer of a child with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities and has supported the project by giving a service user perspective of the council’s short break services. He has also helped with how children and their families using the current Limetree Short Breaks could be involved in developing how the new facility should look. Along with the children and their families, Tony has helped shape the new design into something that works best for the children.
Tony said: “From the start this project has looked to co-produce with not only professionals but with the actual children and their families that use the short break provisions within Limetree Short Breaks. The project team have listened and taken on board the suggestions that have been made by the children and their families and myself which has helped shape the new build.”
