Ofsted Success for North Star's Young Persons Supported Accommodation

A Young Persons Supported Accommodation service managed by North Star has been awarded the highest possible outcome following its first Ofsted inspection in September 2025.

The service located in Stockton-on-Tees, which became Ofsted-registered in August 2024, provides temporary accommodation for up to ten young people aged 16 and over, alongside emergency accommodation for one individual. Referrals to the service are made through Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council’s Children’s Services.

The inspection assessed the overall experiences and progress of children and young people, how well children and young people are helped and protected, and the effectiveness of leaders and managers.

Inspectors praised the service for its consistently strong service delivery and the positive impact it has on the lives of the young people it supports.

Key findings from the inspection included:

• Young people and staff have trusting, positive relationships. Children feel valued and listened to.
• Support is tailored to individual needs and helps young people prepare for adulthood.
• Children feel safe and happy in their homes and know staff are available when needed.
• Leaders and managers set high expectations, reflected in the quality of care provided.
• Staff receive strong support and training, contributing to a stable and consistent team.
• Decision-making is child-centred, with a clear focus on both short- and long-term outcomes.

Inspectors noted that staff are confident in safeguarding procedures and proactive in responding to risks. They provide crisis support and follow-up care to reduce future risks, and work collaboratively with young people to co-create personalised support plans.

Staff also promote social inclusion, physical wellbeing, and access to education and employment. Young people are encouraged to engage in a range of activities, including domestic abuse awareness and first aid training, and are supported to develop life skills for independent living.

Claire Teasdale, Head of Supported Housing at North Star, said:

"We are delighted with the outcome of our inspection. The service and staff team delivers excellent person-centred outcomes for the young people of Stockton, helping them to develop independence, and really making a positive difference to their transition and journey into adulthood.”

One young person preparing to leave the service spoke to the inspectors about their experience and the team, saying:

“They have helped me change my life.”

While the report included some recommendations for improvement, inspectors noted that these were either addressed immediately or are being proactively managed, and did not detract from the high quality of support provided.

The full report is available on the Ofsted website: Parkfield Young Persons Service - Open - Find an Inspection Report - Ofsted