Work is set to begin on delivering a new therapeutic children's home for some of the borough's most vulnerable children.

Following planning approval in March, Kingston Council has appointed Ermine Construction Services Ltd as its construction partner for the scheme, following a competitive tender process.

The residential home for up to three children will provide a safe, stable and nurturing environment for children who need residential care and is part of a £2.8million scheme.

Owned by Kingston Council, it will be operated by the council's children's services provider Achieving for Children.

There are between 100 and 150 children in care across the Royal Borough of Kingston. The council is responsible for their safety and wellbeing and acts as a corporate parent.

Children enter the foster care system for a variety of reasons. When it is not suitable for them to be placed with a foster family, the council looks at placing them in residential care.

The number of children in Kingston that need to be supported in a residential setting is growing and the borough has very limited residential places.

Kingston Council says it "is committed to increasing the amount of accommodation available in the borough".

Cllr Diane White, portfolio holder for children's services, said: "We are pleased to be working with Ermine Construction Services Ltd to deliver this new home.

"It will provide essential support to some of the borough's most vulnerable young people, who need a stable and caring environment.  

"The new home will ensure more children in care can stay within the borough; with the care and therapeutic support they need.

"The final designs reflect the comments received from key stakeholders and neighbours. The home is set to be completed by Autumn 2026."