Leeds Children’s Home Rated Outstanding for Eighth Time

January 12, 2026 Off By

Rainbow House praised for exceptional care and support

A Leeds children’s home providing short breaks and respite care for children and young people with complex needs and disabilities has been rated outstanding by Ofsted for the eighth consecutive time. The latest inspection report highlights the consistently high standards of care and support offered at Rainbow House.

Outstanding rating across all areas

Ofsted inspectors awarded Rainbow House an outstanding rating on all indicators, recognising the home’s effectiveness in leadership, safeguarding, and the quality of care provided. The report states that the children’s home “provides highly effective services that consistently exceed the standards of good” and that its actions contribute to “significantly improved outcomes and positive experiences” for children and young people requiring help, protection, and care.

Care tailored to individual needs

Rainbow House offers short-break services and accommodation for children and young people with learning difficulties, physical disabilities, or sensory impairments. The home is led by a manager described as “highly ambitious and deeply committed,” with staff demonstrating a “strong understanding of each child’s needs” and providing “exceptional care.”

The report also highlights the additional support offered by staff beyond the short-break service, including accompanying families to medical appointments and assisting within home environments. Children at Rainbow House have access to a range of activities and opportunities they might not otherwise experience, such as playing musical instruments and outdoor pursuits like ice skating.

Local authority response

Councillor Helen Hayden, Leeds City Council’s executive member for children and families, expressed pride in the achievement, stating:

“For a children’s home to receive an ‘outstanding’ rating for the eighth time in a row is a remarkable achievement.”
“This is testament to the fantastic work of the entire Rainbow House team that this highest standard of care is being maintained year on year.”
“Our children’s homes are built on the foundation of our unwavering belief that every child deserves not just safety, but stability, ambition and the chance to thrive.”
“Nowhere is that more evident than Rainbow House. They are a credit to this city.”