Derby Cottage


Home Details
Derby Cottage is a small, nurturing home designed to provide long-term stability and attachment for children and young people aged 10-18. With just three bedrooms, the home follows a “family group home” model of care, ensuring a warm and supportive environment where young people can build lasting relationships and experience a true sense of belonging.
A Home Focused on Stability and Growth
At Derby Cottage, we understand the importance of stability in a young person’s life. Our emphasis is on relationships, growth, and overcoming challenges together. Our dedicated team acts as “a good parent should” (Children Act, 1989), providing consistent support that fosters security and emotional well-being.
Prime Location and Educational Support
Derby Cottage offers access to a variety of local amenities to support the diverse needs of our young people. For those requiring additional educational support, Lawrence House School, our DfE-registered independent school, provides tailored learning experiences that help rebuild confidence and social skills, in line with the Vision for Change (DoH, 2016).
Exceptional Team and Therapeutic Approach
Our team has worked closely together for many years, developing a strong, collaborative environment that benefits both staff and young people. With extensive training in trauma and attachment, our staff integrate the PACE model (Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity, and Empathy) into daily practice, ensuring a therapeutic approach that helps young people feel understood and supported.
We are also fully backed by QPC’s clinical team, led by our Clinical Psychologist, who provides a range of therapeutic interventions with an emphasis on attachment and emotional well-being. This additional support helps our young people heal from past traumas and form secure, healthy relationships for the future.
LGBTQ+ Inclusion and Support
Derby Cottage is at the forefront of QPC’s commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion. With LGBTQ+ representation among both staff and young people, we create an environment where everyone feels seen, valued, and respected. Our organization has proudly achieved the Navajo Award for several years, recognizing our dedication to supporting LGBTQ+ young people and staff.
Additionally, QPC has its own LGBTQ+ Ambassador and Trans Inclusion Officer, ensuring that pride and visibility are embedded within our homes. We have extensive experience working with young people in transition, questioning gender identity, or navigating non-binary experiences, and we provide informed, compassionate support to help them thrive.
A Place to Belong
At Derby Cottage, we prioritize emotional well-being, attachment, and long-term stability. Our small, dedicated team, therapeutic approach, and inclusive environment create a space where young people feel safe to heal, grow, and build positive futures.
Join us at Derby Cottage, where every child receives the care, support, and love they deserve.

- 3-bedroom mixed gender home (providing a small, intimate care environment).
- Family group home model (focus on relationships, permanency, and attachment).
- Long-term placements with stability (ensuring emotional growth and reducing placement breakdowns).
- DFE registered, Oftsed rated GOOD education on site.
Contact a member of our team
Audrey Eccleston
Audrey has worked in residential care for over 25 years with children who have learning disabilities and/or emotional and behavioural difficulties. Audrey has held various positions from care staff, through to management level. Audrey has experience in a therapeutic environment supporting children and young people with learning disabilities to transition successfully into long term independent provisions. Audrey has gained qualifications in NVQ level 3 and 4 in Caring for Children and Young People and Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management. Audrey also has Certificates in counselling |
