A CUMNOCK care home for vulnerable young people has earned top marks following an inspection by a watchdog body.

Highview, on the outskirts of the town provides a specialist care service and safehouse to children under the age of 18 who have been victims of abuse and neglect.

The unannounced inspection was carried out by the Care Inspectorate over two days in February, using a six point scale, where 1 is unsatisfactory and 6 is excellent.

Highview, at Over Glaisnock, was given five out of six, meaning it was rated 'very good', in the key category of supporting the rights and wellbeing of children and young people.

In their report on the inspection, published last week, the Care Inspectorate team said: "We found that the service had significant strengths.

"Young people were safe and protected from harm with a team knowledgeable in child protection.

"They were aware of their right to be heard and were confident in expressing their views.

"Eating together and encouraging social interaction was promoted, whenever possible.

"Mealtimes were positive experiences for the young people and that they actively contributed to the preparation of meals."

The inspection of Highview, run by Dunfermline-based Pebbles Care, was carried out on February 23 and 24.

The home was, say the Inspectorate, decorated to a high standard with warm and relaxing surroundings.

Each child in the two storey detached house had their own bedroom with TV and enjoyed activities such as horse riding, dance and cadets.

They were also allowed continued contact with family and friends.

The report added: "The service implemented best practice with child protection procedures including child sexual exploitation.

"We observed the team respond to a young person in crisis in a calm, professional, informed manner.

"Young people enjoyed warm, nurturing relationships based on compassion and a sense of fun.

"They said that they could speak to staff and felt listened to."

The report also said new systems have been introduced and a better standard achieved with young people's education following a previous inspection.

Highview is one of three homes run by Pebbles in the Cumnock area.

Another, The Paddock, near Ochiltree, was rated 'good' in an inspection last year.

The third, Thistlebank, on Cumnock's Benston Road, was given a 'very good' rating for the quality of its care and support, while the planning of its care and support was rated 'good', at its last inspection in February 2022.

The firm also runs Blane Cottage in the South Ayrshire village of Maidens, which was assessed as 'good' following a three-day inspection in April 2022, as well as facilities in Dumfries, Lockerbie, North and South Lanarkshire, Perth and Kinross, and Fife.