Inspectors praise My Options Supported Accommodation as a place where young people truly thrive

Telford & Wrekin Council's My Options Supported Accommodation service has received a glowing inspection report from Ofsted following a full inspection in January 2026, with inspectors finding that the service delivers consistently strong outcomes for looked-after children and care leavers.

Published on: 23 February 2026
Ofsted Outcome 1 for Supported Accommodation

My Options Supported Accommodation, operated by Telford & Wrekin Council, provides accommodation for up to 33 looked-after children and care leavers across 11 single-occupancy homes and 8 supported lodgings. The full inspection concluded that the service delivers "consistently strong service delivery" leading to "typically positive experiences and progress for children”.

Inspectors highlighted that leaders and managers have created a truly child-centred environment, driven by a mission for children to "develop and thrive, not just survive”. Children's voices were found to be central to their individual plans, with staff consulting them at every stage of their support journey from the point of referral through to outcome monitoring and even participation in staff recruitment. Children have also represented their views to senior officials, including the chief social worker.

Children spoken to during the inspection described the quality of support they receive from staff and supported lodging hosts as "good" and "excellent". One child reported that their host listens to them and that they have become part of the family, while another, when asked what they liked most about their living situation, simply answered: “the staff".

The report found that children benefit from stable, safe and enabling environments in which they can thrive, with one child telling inspectors that My Options has been "the best place they have ever lived". Supported lodgings were described as a family-like environment that actively supports children in building personal safety awareness and independence skills.

Inspectors praised the effectiveness of leaders and managers in creating a learning culture where children remain at the very centre of the service. The embedded practices of transparency, joint working and reflective practice were said to have a "profoundly positive impact" for children, hosts and staff alike.

One child summed up the impact of the team with remarkable clarity, describing the staff's teamwork as "incredible" and adding: "I am the way I am today because of every single staff member”.

Councillor Shirley Reynolds, Cabinet Member for Children & Young People, Learning, Employment & Skills, said: "This is a truly wonderful result and one that reflects the dedication, passion and hard work of everyone involved with My Options Supported Accommodation.

“Our staff and supported lodging hosts go above and beyond every single day to make a real difference in the lives of some of our Borough's most vulnerable young people and this inspection report is a testament to that extraordinary commitment.

“To see Ofsted recognise not only the quality of care being provided, but the genuine warmth and trusted relationships our team builds with every child, is incredibly heartening. I want to extend my personal congratulations and deepest thanks to the whole team, our carers and hosts, and everyone who plays a part in making My Options a place where young people don't just survive - they truly thrive."

To read the full report, click here.