Blog: the promise in practice

In April 2026, we inspected Netherton in East Ayrshire, a care home service for children and young people, operated by Spark of Genius. We graded this service as excellent, as we found performance which supports experiences and outcomes for people which are of outstandingly high quality. There is a demonstrable track record of innovative, very high quality performance across a wide range of their activities and from which others could learn. We were impressed with the organisation’s developments and commitment to Scotland’s promise, ensuring young people being cared for by Netherton, East Ayrshire, could grow up feeling loved, safe and respected.

Blog by Stacey Galloway, residential manager at Netherton: Netherton - more than a house, a home

At Netherton, we strive to create far more than simply a residential childcare setting, we create a loving, nurturing family home where children and young people feel safe, respected and genuinely cared for. Everything we do is centred around the needs, voices and lived experiences of our young people, ensuring they feel a sense of belonging, warmth and stability in every aspect of daily life. Guided by the values of The Promise Scotland, children’s rights, trauma-informed practice and the principles of GIRFEC, our staff team continuously reflects on how we can provide the highest standard of care while ensuring young people remain at the centre of every decision made within the home.

At Netherton, relationships are at the heart of everything we do. Our staff team recognises the importance of being caring, consistent adults who help shape and guide young people’s lives through love, nurture and trust. We understand that creating feelings of safety and security comes from the small everyday moments just as much as the bigger achievements. Whether this is supporting a young person after a difficult day, celebrating successes, sharing meals together or simply spending quality time together as a family, we aim to create an environment where children feel emotionally safe, listened to and valued.

A key focus for our team has been reducing the stigma often associated with being in care. Our young people have shared how important it is for them to feel like individuals rather than being defined by their experiences, and this has shaped the culture within Netherton. We have worked hard to ensure that language, approaches and relationships are nurturing, compassionate and empowering. Staff understand that meaningful relationships and consistent care can have a lasting impact on a young person’s confidence, wellbeing and future.

One example of this has been the redesign of our risk assessments into “Keeping Me Safe” plans, developed collaboratively with young people. Rather than professionals identifying concerns for them, young people are encouraged to share what matters to them, identify areas they would like support with and contribute to the language used throughout their plans. This has strengthened trust, promoted ownership and ensured young people feel listened to and respected.

Our young people also led an inspiring piece of work around children’s rights through the creation of a “Children’s Rights Rainbow.” The rainbow included teardrops containing emotions, experiences and examples of how staff support them daily through love, nurture, reassurance and advocacy. This powerful piece of work reflected the importance of amplifying children’s voices and recognising the positive impact that caring relationships have on their everyday lives.

Young people are actively involved in shaping the home around them. From choosing colours and furnishings to designing bedrooms, shared spaces and communal areas, they have helped create an environment that feels warm, welcoming and personal to them. The house reflects their personalities, interests and individuality, allowing it to feel like a genuine family home rather than a service.

Daily life at Netherton is built around creating positive experiences and meaningful connections. Young people are involved in menu planning to encourage healthy, balanced diets and are supported to take part in cooking meals for one another during “taster nights,” promoting independence, confidence and shared family experiences. Regular movie nights, activities, celebrations and community engagement all help create memories, strengthen relationships and encourage young people to simply enjoy being children.

We are incredibly proud of the achievements of our young people and celebrate success in all forms, no matter how big or small. Young people at Netherton have achieved awards and recognition across education, music and wider community involvement. Through engagement with local opportunities and organisations, including Cross Borders, young people have continued to build confidence, develop skills and achieve positive outcomes. One young person was recently recognised by the local authority with an outstanding achievement award, reflecting the progress, resilience and commitment they have shown across all aspects of their life.

These achievements are celebrated within our participation folder, which showcases the meaningful work completed between staff and young people and highlights the progress being made towards positive outcomes. This reflects our ongoing commitment to ensuring every child is supported to reach their full potential in line with GIRFEC principles.

By continuing to listen, reflect and grow alongside our young people, we hope to provide experiences that allow them not only to feel protected, but to feel proud of who they are and hopeful for their future.