A PETITION has been launched to save a Bromsgrove children's home from closure, as Worcestershire's cabinet voted today in favour of new cost-cutting plans.

The online petition was launched in opposition to the county council's latest plans to reform children's services in Worcestershire, which include reducing the number of residential units for youngsters with complex social and emotional difficulties from six to two.

Rivendell in Bromsgrove is one of four operating homes at risk of closure, with the money saved going towards an 'Edge of Care Outreach Service' to improve early help and support services, in an effort to reduce the number of children in care homes.

The Change.org petition, which has already attracted 383 signatures, was launched by foster mum Lorraine Lockyer, whose foster daughter spent time at Rivendell.

Speaking at the meeting of Worcestershire's cabinet, Lorraine said: "In essence, we would agree that Edge of Care is a welcome initiative. I applaud it.

"However, it should be run in parallel with and not be at the expense of the current provision of in-house children's homes."

Lorraine also read a heartfelt letter from her foster daughter, nicknamed 'B', who wrote: "I passionately believe that the children’s homes of Worcestershire should not be closed down.

"I am only 14 and I have spent time living in a children’s home myself.

"When I was very much younger and all the foster carers I lived with did not want me, and I was tired of being blamed for everything. I moved into a children’s home in Bromsgrove.

"The children’s home was not in a family setting but that was exactly what I needed.

"Although I was not in a family, we were one big family. I was kept safe there. They protected me when the other girls where mean and they stopped me from wanting to smoke or use drugs.

"At the home they taught me how to cook and bake, which I am now aiming to do as a job.

"Their kindness has made me more compassionate and caring towards others. They never let me forget that I am more than I think I am. They gave me other options when my anxiety would not let me go to school."

B goes on to write: "The children’s home were there for me, supported me and provided me with a positive outlook which allowed me to reconsider living with a foster family.

"They were so happy for me when it was my time to leave.

"I now live in a foster home that I do not consider a foster home; it is just home with two fantastic people (and three cats).

"I am absolutely certain that closing down the children’s homes is not the answer. Some children like me need a break from foster care and others do not want another family."

The new Edge of Care Outreach Service would involve three teams of multi-disciplinary staff, including social workers and family support workers, and is expected to cost approximately £1.9m a year.

The homes recommended for closure would impact 13 children.

Councillor Andy Roberts, cabinet member for children and families, said the new plans are 'about prevention rather than cure' and will improve life chances for vulnerable children by allowing them to develop well in a family setting.

A consultation will now be launched with young people, families and stakeholders, before a decision is made on which homes to close.

View the petition here.