Plans for a new residential care facility in South Tyneside aimed at supporting children and young people have been given the green light. R5 Care Ltd has secured permission to establish a "safe and secure environment" for up to two children aged between seven and 17 at a property on Durham Grove in Jarrow.
Specialist care and accommodation
An application lodged earlier this year outlined that the development would offer specialist care and accommodation for children with emotional or behavioural difficulties and other needs, with support workers on hand around the clock.
The facility, which will be known as Beardsley House and regulated by Ofsted, aims to provide "care and support for children to enable them to develop and grow, whilst having the opportunity to live a normal family life".
The project forms part of a broader initiative to deliver high-quality care and accommodation for local children in care, and to bring South Tyneside youngsters currently placed out-of-area back to their home region.
Life skills and community integration
It was highlighted that children would acquire essential life skills by taking part in weekly shopping trips, cooking, cleaning and budgeting, while the children's home will also encourage residents to make positive contributions to the wider community.
One public objection was raised during a consultation period, raising concerns over management, local demand for placements, staffing levels and procedures for handling complaints from neighbouring residents. Council planners stated many concerns raised fell outside planning considerations and highlighted the local authority had identified a "strategic priority to increase the availability and diversity of local provision to support children and young people."
Approval granted
South Tyneside Council's planning department granted approval for the application on October 23, 2026.
While council planners recognised there would be a planning change of use of the property, they stated it "would remain operating as a house providing a home for two children, with staff assisting in providing them with a space and a secure environment".
They also determined that the proposal would not lead to increased antisocial behaviour and would not affect the character of the area, the amenity of neighbouring residents, or highway safety.
A council decision report continues: "The site currently benefits from off-street parking for four vehicles and there are no parking restrictions along Durham Grove."
The council's transport development officer was consulted on the application and have confirmed they have no objection to the proposals.
