25th September 2026
Sanctuary Supported Living
Sanctuary Supported Living residents and colleagues celebrate a successful Ofsted inspection outcome.
A supported housing service for young people in East Kent has achieved the highest possible outcome following a recent Ofsted inspection.
Sanctuary Supported Living's East Kent Young People Supported Housing service provides accommodation and support for young people in care aged 16 to 18. The service operates across East Kent in Canterbury, Ramsgate, in Sittingbourne, Hythe and Folkestone.
Supporting 38 young people, the service received a Grade 1 judgement under Ofsted's supported accommodation framework, recognising the high quality of support provided by Sanctuary Supported Living’s team and the positive outcomes achieved by young people.
The service helps young people build the skills, confidence and resilience needed to live independently, while providing a safe and stable home environment. Through personalised support, young people are encouraged to pursue education, employment and training opportunities, strengthen relationships and work towards their future goals.
During the inspection, young people told inspectors they felt proud of their homes and supported by trusted adults, with one resident commenting: “It feels more like family than staff because they care about who is living here.” Inspectors also found that young people were positive about their futures and their aspirations for adulthood.
The inspection further highlighted improvements in leadership and management, praising the positive culture and supportive working environment. Staff told inspectors they feel valued by managers and supported to provide the best possible outcomes for young people.
Director for Sanctuary Supported Living, David Shaw, said: “This fantastic result shows the value of investing in services to give young people the stability they need at a crucial stage in their lives. "We know that the transition to adulthood can be particularly challenging for young people in care. Achieving the highest Ofsted judgement demonstrates the strength of the support being delivered across East Kent and the important role supported accommodation can play in helping young people build positive futures.”
Local Service Manager for East Kent Young People Supported Housing, Tom Butler-Humphrey said: “Our teams come to work every day focused on helping young people feel safe, valued and confident about their future. The feedback from Ofsted reflects the relationships colleagues have built and the genuine care they show."
"Seeing young people grow in confidence, develop independence and achieve their goals is why we do what we do"
“Seeing young people grow in confidence, develop independence and achieve their goals is why we do what we do, and this recognition belongs to everyone who has played a part in their journey.”
