Discover the new children's homes designed to uplift vulnerable youth in Aberdeenshire.
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Aberdeenshire Council is set to invest £1.65 million in the creation of two new children’s homes, aimed at providing a safe and supportive environment for vulnerable youngsters. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance in-house capacity and reduce reliance on external care providers, which currently costs the council over £6.3 million annually. By establishing these homes, the council anticipates saving more than £800,000 each year, allowing for better allocation of resources to support local children.
Currently, many children from Aberdeenshire are placed in residential care facilities outside the region, often resulting in separation from their families and communities. The new homes will accommodate eight children, enabling them to remain closer to their support networks. Council officials believe that a significant portion of the 25 children currently placed outside Aberdeenshire could have been cared for locally if adequate facilities were available.
This initiative not only addresses the immediate needs of these children but also fosters a sense of belonging and connection to their roots.
The council is actively pursuing the acquisition of two four-bedroom properties to serve as the new homes. Initial plans to repurpose existing unused buildings were deemed unsuitable, prompting the search for alternative locations. If all goes according to plan, the first home is expected to open its doors in April 2026, followed by the second home in October 2027. Councillors have expressed strong support for this initiative, with Education Chairman David Keating highlighting the importance of keeping young people connected to their families and communities. The council’s commitment to this project reflects a growing recognition of the need for localized care solutions that prioritize the well-being of children.
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