Blossom House and Starbright House
Hackney Council has commissioned a specialist provider to operate Blossom House and Starbright House, two new children's homes, after rejecting insourcing.
Hackney Council's Cabinet Procurement and Insourcing Committee decided in June 2026 to commission a specialist provider to operate Blossom House and Starbright House, two new children's homes. This decision followed the rejection of insourcing children's care services, which a report to the committee said posed significant financial, regulatory, and operational risks.
The council awarded a contract worth up to £15.1 million over seven years to Provider B to deliver residential care and support. The homes will provide a total of six care arrangements for children aged 11 to 17 with complex needs, with the council retaining ownership of the properties.
The initiative aims to improve care for children looked after by Hackney, ensuring they can maintain connections with friends, family, and support networks by keeping them closer to their communities. Children's input shaped the design of the homes.
Key facts
- Hackney Council's Cabinet Procurement and Insourcing Committee decided to commission a specialist provider for the homes on June 1, 2026. Source 1 Source 2 Source 3
- The council rejected insourcing children's care services due to financial, regulatory, and operational risks. Source
- A contract worth up to £15.1 million over seven years was awarded to Provider B. Source 1 Source 2
- Blossom House and Starbright House will provide six care arrangements for children aged 11-17. Source 1 Source 2 Source 3
- Hackney Council will retain ownership of Blossom House and Starbright House. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 30 September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.