A national provider of high-quality children’s care homes had secured planning permission for a small group home in which children with complex needs were to be housed. A minority of local residents were campaigning against the home, which was beginning to lead to negative media coverage about the company.

It was important to respond swiftly and effectively to journalists’ enquiries and to reassure residents that their fears were unfounded. I worked with the company to this end, ensuring that information about the quality of care and the high ratio of staff to children were central to our communications. I was also able to help company representatives prepare for difficult face-to-face meetings, equipping them to deal with challenging questions.

Information about the home was shared in a positive light by media, with balanced coverage reflecting that residents’ concerns were being allayed.