THE work of staff at the Crannoch Centre, in Lochgelly, has been praised by local councillor Rosemary Liewald.

Councillor Liewald attended an Open Day at Crannoch Residential Child Care Resource.

Along with her was Bailey-Lee Robb, the Cowdenbeath representative for the Scottish Youth Parliament and they enjoyed getting the chance to see the work of staff at Crannoch.

The service is run by Margaret Durning, manager/director, who very kindly gave Rosemary and Bailey-Lee, a tour and explanation of the work carried out at there.

Said Rosemary: "They have an amazing team headed by Gavin Leitch, and Agnes Earl, who provide care and support for up to six vulnerable young people between the ages of 8 and 18 years with a range of needs which have resulted in them being unable to live at home. This includes children with disabilities.

"They can provide short or long term placements. The needs of the young people are paramount and are consulted in relation to all aspects of life in the house with their views being taken into account in all decisions that are taken about them.

"Their length of stay is determined by individual needs and they endeavour to facilitate one of the following, return home; a placement with family or friends; supported accommodation; or living independently in the community."

Added the councillor: "They have created a warm and homely environment where there is an atmosphere of mutual respect and where young people can make informed choices about how they live.

"They are involved in deciding what they eat, what they wear and from the moment they arrive at Crannoch they are encouraged to take a large part in deciding how their room will be decorated as well as activities in which they will participate.

"The young people are involved in attending weekly house meetings, allowing them to make an input in the running of the house and improving the service provided, as well as addressing any issues that might be around for them."

The aim of Crannoch Residential Child Care Resource is to provide the highest standard of care for young people within a homely, nurturing and safe environment where they will have the opportunity to develop the skills necessary to improve their lives both physically and emotionally, and allow them to meet their full potential in an atmosphere of mutual value and respect.

Concluded Rosemary: "This is an outstanding environment and it was a pleasure to see the work that goes on and I say many thanks to Margaret and her team for making me feel so welcome".