A foster care agency in Gorleston has been rated outstanding by an education and children's care watchdog.

Beams Foster Care and Family Services, based on Magdalen Way, was inspected in February when it impressed Ofsted inspectors with its ability to "provide children with outstanding care". 

Inspectors noted that "most children make exceptional progress from their starting points and thrive in their foster families," and that "children benefit from well-planned, creative care that increases their self-esteem and reduces stigma."

Great Yarmouth Mercury: The team from Beams Foster Care and Family Services.The team from Beams Foster Care and Family Services. (Image: Beams Foster Care)The service was also praised for helping children learn essential personal care skills, improving their daily routines and increasing their confidence.

Foster carers were also said to have been supported with additional training to be "effective and tenacious advocates for children".

Inspectors recommended the service ensure "principles are shared and understood by all members of the fostering household".

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Beams Foster Care and Family Services is located at Shrublands Cottages, Magdalen Way, Gorleston.Beams Foster Care and Family Services is located at Shrublands Cottages, Magdalen Way, Gorleston. (Image: Beams Foster Care)Beams Foster Care, which began under the helm of Beryl Sims and Karen Beales in 2013, currently works with 32 children across the area, including Yarmouth, Gorleston and Lowestoft.

This is the first time the service has been reviewed as outstanding by Ofsted, having previously been granted Good status at its two previous inspections.

Director Karen Beales said the "amazing result" was a huge "vote of confidence".

"We are only a small team, but we try very hard to make it as best as it possibly can be," she said. 

"We know all of our carers and they know us. Working together is absolutely key in providing a better life to the children in our care."

While Ms Beales said the plan is to keep Beams Foster Care and Family Services a close-knit operation, the agency is always on the lookout for new families to join the fold.

Beams is hosting an open day event on Monday, May 20 from its office at Shrublands Cottages on Magdalen Way from 10am until 7pm. Prospective carers can meet the team and find out more about being a foster carer.

For more information, visit Beams Foster Care and Family Services Ltd on Facebook.