New Hampshire children's home to support complex needs opens

Hockley House, located in Hampshire, is designed for children with challenging behavioural, emotional, and mental health needs.

The facility is a joint project between Hampshire County Council and NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight.

Councillor Roz Chadd, the county council’s cabinet lead member for children’s services, said: "As with other local authorities across the country, we are seeing more children and young people fall through the gap between health and social care.

Children’s care and support converge at newly opened Hockley House in Hampshire (Image: Hampshire County Council) "Hockley House is a small but crucial step in bridging this gap locally, reducing our reliance on more costly provision and most importantly, enabling us and our partners to get it right for these children quicker and with stronger long-term outcomes."

The home is the first in the county to combine social care, health care, and education in one setting.

It is designed for children whose needs are too complex for standard placements but do not meet the criteria for hospital admission or secure care.

Hockley House offers a homely environment with three self-contained bedrooms, a communal kitchen and dining area, and adaptable indoor and outdoor spaces.

Children aged 12–18 find tailored help at new Hockley House residence (Image: Hampshire County Council) The design allows for flexible use of space to suit the changing needs of its young residents.

The home is staffed by both health and social care professionals and will provide intensive therapeutic support for children aged 12 to 18.

Placements are expected to last between six and nine months, with a focus on developing independence and life skills.

Jenny Erwin, director for mental health, learning disabilities and autism, and children’s care at NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight, said: "We are delighted that Hockley House is now open for local children and their families.

"This home from home combines education, health and care services in the same setting and will help children avoid spending longer than needed in hospital.

"Hockley House has the potential to make a lasting difference to the lives of young people and their families in Hampshire.

"This achievement reflects the strong working relationship between the local NHS and our colleagues at Hampshire County Council."