tanglewood statement of purpose - partners in care · tanglewood - biggar statement of purpose 1....

Tanglewood Statement of Purpose

Head Office: Rouse House, 2 Wyther Lane, Kirkstall, Leeds, LS5 3BT

Tel: 0113 265 3340 Fax: 0113 278 2486

Website: partners-in-care.com Email: [email protected]

Tanglewood - Biggar Statement of Purpose

PARTNERS IN CARE

CONTENTS PAGE NUMBER

1. Introduction Page 1

2. Aims and Objectives of the Home

3. Mission Statement Page 4

4. Core Values Page 5

5. Facilities and Services Page 6

6. Registered Provider and Registered Manager Page 8

7. The Staff Team: Numbers, Qualifications and Experience Page 9

8. Supervision, Training and Development Page 11

9. Organisational Structure of the home Page 12

10. Details of the Young People Who Can Be Accommodated Page 13

11. Admissions Policy and Criteria Page 13

12. Positive Outcomes as a Result of Size Page 20

13. Philosophy and Ethos of the Home Page 20

14. Protecting and Promoting Healthy Outcomes Page 21

15. Promoting Educational Outcomes Page 24

16. Recreation, Sporting and Cultural Provisions Page 28

17. Consultation with Children and Young People Page 29

18. Control, Restraint and Discipline Page 30

19. Child Protection and Countering Bullying Page 32

20. Unauthorised Absences Page 33

21. Surveillance within the Home Page 34

22. Fire and Emergency Procedures Page 34

23. Religious Observance and Instruction Page 35

24. Contact Arrangements Page 35


Continued……

25. Complaints 6

26. Review of Placement Plans Page 38

27. Therapeutic Techniques Undertaken Page 39

28. Anti-Discriminatory Practice and Children’s Rights Page 39

29. Monitoring and Review Page 40

30. Addendums Page 41


1. Introduction: Tanglewood is part of Partners in Care Ltd. Tanglewood provides care provision for young people that is consistent with the Children (Scotland) Act 1995 Guidance and Regulations, The National Care Standards and the Regulation of Care (Requirements as to Care Services) (Scotland) Regulations 2002. You can contact us at Tanglewood by calling 01864 502152 or our main office address at: Partners in Care Ltd Rouse House 2 Wyther Lane Leeds West Yorkshire LS5 3BT Telephone No: 0113 265 3340 Facsimile No: 0113 278 2486 E-mail: [email protected] Web Site: www.partners-in-care.co.uk Tanglewood is registered with Care Inspectorate at: Solway House Dumfries Enterprise Park Tinwald Downs Road Dumfries DG1 3SJ Telephone: 01387 734 980 Ofsted Unique Reference Number: SC2007144754 This document has been endorsed by the Responsible Individual, Luiz Guillherme.

Signature: Date: 11.03.13

Page 1


2. Aims and Objectives of Tanglewood Aims

• All people must be considered as individuals with unique needs and potentials, where age, gender, health, personality, race, culture, religious background and life experiences are taken into account when assessing their individual needs and providing them with care and support.

• To provide emergency crisis intervention placements of up to 28 days, in addition to medium and longer term accommodation.

• To provide a safe, structured and nurturing environment; creating an atmosphere of acceptance and approval, where each individual is unique in personality and background and offered the skills to shape their chosen future.

• To provide routines and procedures that will offer structure and security for the young person, though more flexible to the needs of the individual.

• To provide an opportunity for each young person to participate in and help to devise their individual care plan, incorporating social, physical, emotional and health needs.

• To ascertain the immediate needs of each young person to provide a more detailed, supportive and longer term Care Plan.

• To offer interim educational provision through academic and recreational learning, whilst the process of securing longer term placements are underway; and to ensure all educational provision is responsive to the specific needs of the young person and to their past experience of schooling.

• To ensure all individuals will receive the same standard of services irrespective of race, religion, age, gender and sexuality in line with our Equal Opportunities Policy, whilst raising awareness, monitoring and taking action for effective anti-discriminatory practice.

• To create an atmosphere where the young people are praised and rewarded for positive behaviour and supported, encouraged and guided in times of difficulty and negativity.

• To provide adequate and effective staff to young person ratios; based on individual needs, enabling high quality and individual support and attention for each young person.

• To ensure the wishes and feelings of both young people and their parents/families are taken into account and respected in actions taken on their behalf.

• To ensure continuity of relationships and attachments are respected, sustained and developed where appropriate. Family links will be actively promoted and maintained through visits and other forms of contact if consistent with the young person's care plan.

• To ensure the rights of children and young people are recognised and upheld, offering advocacy, advice and support where necessary.

Page 2


To provide this service for 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, 365 days of the year.

Objectives

• To ensure all children and young people feel safe, secure and cared for

• To offer stability to the young person’s life

• To make the young person smile

• To work closely with young people in developing strategies to assist them in working through some of their difficulties and support them in coming to terms with their past

• To provide opportunities and challenges, enabling each young person to develop in confidence, self worth, and the responsible exercise of personal rights and to respect the rights of others.

• To provide a service that will assist the young person to settle, stabilise their behaviour and allowing them the time, opportunity and support to make decisions about their future.

• To assist the young people, in partnership with other agencies, to plan for their future with regard to their ongoing learning or training, career prospects, social aspirations and assist in their integration into:

• Their home area • To their family/foster carers • To semi/independent living accommodation.

Page 3


3. Mission Statement

Page 4


4. CORE VALUES

Page 5


5. Facilities and Services

Facilities, Type of accommodation which includes sleeping Arrangements

Tanglewood is situated in Abington, South Lanarkshire. It is a detached three bed-roomed property. We aim to ensure that our house reflects that of a family home where young people feel safe, relaxed and cared for in a non-institutionalized setting.

The house has a fitted kitchen, utility room, dining room and lounge. Downstairs there is also a bedroom/office for staff. Upstairs there are three bedrooms for young people, one with en-suite facilities. There is also a bathroom shower and bath. Each of the Young Person’s bedrooms is warm and bright and we encourage all those who come and live with us to bring their own personal possessions so as to make their bedroom feel their own. We do provide a TV with free view in each bedroom. Outside at the front and side of the property there is a parking area for four vehicles and to the rear of the property there is a garden with a lawn where children can play and young people can relax.

Page 6


Services:

• High staff to child ratio

• Comprehensive placement planning

• Effective and therapeutic relationships based on sound key working systems

• Individualised activities based on need and choice

• Support from Eden Park Academy, Carlisle & Muirkirk.

Off Site:

• A wide range of leisure activities available in the area including cinema, theatres, swimming pools and bowling. Other leisure amenities include:

• Biking tracks in Peebles

• Climbing walls

• Camp sites

• Shopping Centers

• Laser Quest

• Youth Zone

• Paint Balling

• Gym

• Go Karting

Page 7


6. Registered Provider and Registered Manager Qualifications and Responsibilities

Registered Provider: The registered provider of Tanglewood is Luiz Guilherme. Luiz Guilherme has for the last 26 years been involved in the capacity of Director, with a successful proven commercial track record. Having previously been the Director of a Children’s Care Home 7 years ago and with his leadership the company has now grown to more than 20 Children’s Care Homes with an additional Independent school. This expansion has been achieved through the high standards of child care delivered by highly qualified, motivated and caring staff. Today our company is held in high regard by Local Authorities as a leading provider for ‘Looked after Children’ Registered Manager: Ann Moffat has over five years experience working in a residential child care setting and 11 years in supervisory management. Ann has worked in a variety of care settings including Nursing (hospital) for 15 years and a Nursery Manager for another 4 years, meeting the needs of young people of all ages. In addition to the qualifications listed below, Ann also has a certificate in Health & Safety at Work, First Aid, Child Protection, Safeguarding Children, Self Harm Awareness, Supervision & Appraisal, Safer Recruitment, and Food Hygiene. Ann has experience of meeting the National Care Standards and ensures that the home is running to the standards to provide a competent safe environment. Ann works in partnership with placing authorities from across the country and brings a wealth of experience in ensuring that looked after children and young people are given the life experiences that they deserve. Qualifications

• HND/SVQ Level 4 (Social Sciences) • HNC/SVQ Level 3 (Social Care) • City & Guilds Level 3 Child Care & Education • LMA (Leadership & Management) • SVQ Level 4 (Social Care)

A minimum of three staff provide care for the young people at Tanglewood by means of a flexible rota covering 24 hrs per day, seven days a week. Dependant on the needs of the young people, a fourth member of staff will also be on duty at the home, enabling their needs to be met. One member of staff provides sleep in cover during night and we also have a member of staff on Waking Night. There is also an on-call facility for the staff 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Page 8


7. The Staff Team: Numbers, Qualifications and Experience

Post Qualifications and Experience

ANN MOFFAT

REGISTERED MANAGER

LMA (Leadership & Management) HNC/SVQ Level 4, HNC/SVQ Level 3, (Social Sciences) City & Guilds Level 3 Childcare and Education, SVQ Level 4 (Social Care)

PAULA BARCLAY

ASSISTANT MANAGER

LMA (Leadership & Management) SVQ Level 4 (Social Care) HNC/SVQ Level 3 (Social Care) Paula previously worked as an Autism Practitioner for 8 years before joining Partners in Care and continues to put herself forward for higher qualifications and training

ANNE BEATTIE

SENIOR CARE OFFICER

HNC/SVQ Level 3 (Social Care) Anne worked in the care service with Disabilities for 5 years and is at present completing SVQ Level 4. Anne is enthusiastic to complete all in house training and is a Senior Care Worker

JOANNA GILLESPIE

CARE OFFICER

HNC/SVQ Level 3 (Social Care) Joanna worked in Residential Care for a year before joining Partners in Care and has since completed the relevant Qualification. Joanna continues to complete all in house training

MARK FERGUSON

CARE OFFICER

HNC/SVQ Level 3 (Social Care) Mark was new to Residential Care Services when joining Partners in Care and is highly motivated in completing all in house training

CLARE SMITH

CARE OFFICER

HNC/SVQ Level 3 (Social Care) SVQ Level 2 (Social Care) Clare has 4 years experience working with adults with disabilities before joining Partners in Care and is a Senior Care Worker

CAROL MILLAR

CARE OFFICER

HNC/SVQ Level 3 (Social Care) Carol has experience in Residential Care for over 7 year and continues to complete all in house training

RHONAGH ZAWADZSKI

CARE OFFICER

Honours Degree Criminal Justice Enrolled on SVQ Level 3 (Social Care) Rhonagh is one of our younger members of staff who has worked in the voluntary sector with young people for 2 years.

Page 9


ANDREW NEWELL

CARE OFFICER

Enrolled on HNC/SVQ Level 3 Social Care Andrew has worked in Residential Care for over a year and has good care practice working with young people.

LYNSEY PERRIE

CARE OFFICER

Advanced Diploma in Teaching in Further Education Enrolled to complete HNC/SVQ 3 in Social Care Lynsey is our new member of staff who has worked with young people with challenging behaviour for many years.

LIZANNE KIRKWOOD

CARE OFFICER

NVQ 3 In Health & Social Care with Adults Enrolled to complete HNC/SVQ 3 in Social Care Lizanne is our waking night staff who has many years experience in the care sector.

8. Supervision, Training and Development of Employees

In order to fulfil our commitment to the young people we care for it is imperative that we have a competent, skilled and well-motivated staff team. The staff team are selected on the basis of their experience, competence, qualifications and commitment to the ethos of the home. Coming from a variety of backgrounds, our staff team offer a multi disciplinary knowledge base, varying skills and experience, and a variety of specialities and strengths in becoming positive role models to the young people in our care.

Staff are supported with regular supervisions with their line managers. During the first 6 months of employment these will be conducted on a fortnightly basis.

Where applicable a 30 minute handover is made available, sometimes staff will take a written handover and read this as our young people have commitments to schools that could be a distance to travel. Staff meetings are held on a regular basis to support and inform all staff and provide a means for staff to discuss issues with regard to the running of the home, the needs of the young people and submit areas for improvement. Minutes of staff meetings, staff appraisals and duty rotas are recorded and kept in the homes and personnel files.

Page 10


9. Organisational Structure of Partners in Care and Tanglewood

DIRECTOR

ACTING AREA

MANAGER NORTH WEST

AREA

MANAGER

AREA MANAGER

ACTING AREA

MANAGER

CARLISLE

HEAD OF EDUCATION

TRAINING CO - ORDINATOR

TEACHERS & TEACHING

ASSISTANTS

REGISTERED MANAGERS

REGISTERED MANAGERS

REGISTERED MANAGERS

REGISTERED MANAGERS

ASSISTANT MANAGERS

ASSISTANT MANAGERS

ASSISTANT MANAGERS

ASSISTANT MANAGERS

SENIOR / CARE

OFFICERS

SENIOR / CARE

OFFICERS

SENIOR / CARE

OFFICERS

SENIOR / CARE

OFFICERS

ACTING REGIONAL SCOTTISH MANAGER

ACTING REGIONAL SCOTTISH MANAGER

COMPLIANCE INSPECTOR

REGISTERED MANAGERS

ASSISTANT MANAGERS

SENIOR / CARE

OFFICERS

REGISTERED MANAGERS

ASSISTANT MANAGERS

SENIOR / CARE

OFFICERS

PSYCHOTHERAPIST STARTS JAN 2014

OPERATIONS MANAGER

Page 11


10 Details of the young people who can be accommodated at the home

Tanglewood is registered to take three young people. The young people referred to Tanglewood usually display a number of anti social behaviours and/or emotional difficulties. The home can offer planned and emergency placements which can be considered dependent upon the needs of the young person referred and the compatibility and needs of the resident group.

11. Admissions Policy and Criteria

Criteria for Admission

The young people referred to Tanglewood usually display a number of behavioural and/or emotional difficulties. Many will have been in receipt of multi-professional services and their families may be disrupted or non-existent and their history of going from one service to another underlines the lack of stability in their lives. In order to minimise the chance of further instability, we endeavour to offer placements to those young people who we feel can be successful in the environment we offer. A referral matching process is in place to ensure that any new referrals to the home will be a positive match to existing residents as far as feasibly possible.

We can offer placements to young people:

• Aged between 8-18 years of age

• Of either gender

• Who need short / medium / long term placements

• With low self-esteem and self-confidence

• Who display challenging behaviours

• Without a stable educational background

• Who have experienced repeated placement breakdown

Age Range of Young People

At Tanglewood we recognise that we cater for a wide age range. We feel strongly that due to the size of the home, the number of young people resident and the high ratio of staff any age gap can be managed to the benefit of the young people.

Careful risk assessing will be undertaken before any young person is admitted to the home. This will examine closely, any behaviour that would impact on theirs or other resident’s well-being such as bullying and offending behaviours. The staff team will be

Page 12


very aware of the issues that may arise from having young people resident of different ages.

Young people of such differing ages often have different needs; therefore it is felt that with quality care planning, Tanglewood will be able to meet all of their needs.

We will consider referrals for young people who:

• Are victims of abuse, physical, sexual or emotional

• Are going through some form of crisis in their lives

• Have problems with their sexuality

• Have offending behaviour

We will also take into consideration the fact that there may already be a young person or young persons already in residence. The age, sex and maturity of the existing resident/s will also be a contributory factor as to whether we could offer a placement, as we try to match young people in order to facilitate a successful placement, thus maximising outcomes.

Where it becomes apparent that a placement is no longer feasible the maximum notice possible will be given to terminate the placement. For the young person concerned, this will be a period of not less than 7 days, unless they have behaved in such a manner that their immediate removal is the only option available in order to protect the well being of others and/or themselves.

Tanglewood will generally only end a placement if it becomes apparent over a period of time that:

• The placement is no longer meeting their needs or ensuring their well being

• Their presence at Tanglewood is incompatible with the structure of the home

• Their presence is detrimental to the well being of other young people

OR:

• There is a serious incident which breaches the risk assessment of the young person

• There is a serious incident in the local community that places our relationship in jeopardy with our neighbours and/or the local community

We will offer a placement to a young person if, after reading the reports, we genuinely believe we can provide a safe, caring environment for that person and that we can address, with some success, their needs.

If we believe we couldn’t appropriately meet the needs of the young person we would never offer a placement and give the placing authority clear reasons to why we felt unable to do so.

Page 13


Planned Admissions

When a referral is made to Tanglewood and there is a placement available at Tanglewood we send the referring agency a referral information form. If on receipt of this completed form it is considered appropriate to proceed; then the following procedure is instigated.

The young person’s social worker is contacted to arrange a pre-admission meeting and to ensure that all appropriate information regarding the young person is forwarded to Partners in Care. This information should include educational reports, psychological assessments, social history, court proceedings and present situation regarding the young person.

If required a manager and a staff member from Tanglewood will visit the young person at their present abode to discuss the possibility of a placement and to answer any questions the young person might wish to ask.

The social worker and if possible the young person should be invited to visit the house, before admission, to ensure the placement and environment is suitable in meeting the young person’s needs.

The young person should have the opportunity to visit the placement prior to admission in order to familiarise themselves with the home and staff team, enabling them to ask any questions regarding their care with us.

Each young person will also be provided with a Welcome DVD; this covers a wide range of topics relating to the way in which their care is provided and to assist in answering any questions they may have.

A pre-admission meeting will be held between the Placing Authority and Partners in Care to discuss an initial Care Plan for the young person and an agreement reached regarding the placement’s desired outcomes.

Page 14


Admission Flow Chart:

Page15


Emergency Admissions

In the event of an emergency admissions where there is not time to follow standard admission procedures, Tanglewood will endeavour to work in partnership with the Placing Authority to ensure that the young person is removed from their point of crisis and re-housed with us in as short a time as possible.

For an emergency placement to be successful it is important that the manager and staff at Tanglewood are given full details regarding the young person’s present situation and background so that a professional and proper decision can be made regarding the feasibility of a placement. On receipt of a completed referral form, the manager at Tanglewood will complete a referral matching form to see if the young person’s needs can be met. An answer will be given to the authority as soon as all relevant information is received. If Tanglewood agrees to take the emergency placement then a Placement Agreement confirming residency, fees and initially the duration of the young person residing in our care, will be faxed or emailed to the placing authority. Upon receipt of the signed Placement Agreement by fax or email the manager of Tanglewood will:

• Ensure staffing is in place and accommodation is ready to receive the young person

• Will collect the young person from any destination in the UK and return them to their arranged place of residence

Page16


Moving In: On arrival at Tanglewood the young person will be allowed to settle and made to feel at home. When a young person first moves it will take time to settle in so the staff will be sensitive to their feelings and worries at this time. They will be offered as much help as they need and can be shown all the new things in the area to help them familiarise and settle in. Basic rules and routines of the house, expectations staff will have of the young person and what the young person can expect from the staff will all be explained on arrival. A Young Person’s Booklet is provided for the young person, containing a great deal of the information he/she will need to know during their stay. During the first 48 hours emphasis is placed on allowing the young person to settle, find their bearings and getting to know the staff that will be working with them. This is a crucial time and every effort is made to create an atmosphere where the young person is made to feel safe, cared for and wanted.

Throughout the placement, the statutory Child in Care Review System will be operated. The placing authority is responsible for arranging and conducting any reviews.

Asylum Seekers

Unaccompanied asylum seekers, who are under 16 years old, may be placed within Tanglewood. In this event, special provision would be made for their cultural, language and religious needs, in conjunction with the adults' Asylum Seekers services.

Discharge Procedure

In most situations the young person’s discharge/ leaving Tanglewood will be planned and agreed amongst all relevant parties, including the young person and will be achieved with the utmost professionalism and sensitivity.

Transition Arrangements and Leaving Care

Tanglewood support a young person to achieve the greatest degree of Independence as possible up to the time of leaving care ensuring that they are ready for semi/independent living. Detailed planning will take place following our Independence programme throughout the duration of time leading up to leaving care; this is to ensure that appropriate and agreed plans are in place, so that the young person’s needs are fully met during the next stage in his or her life. There will be early and full consultation with providers of through care and after care services to ensure smooth transition.

The work consists of an assessment of the young person’s individual needs. This is based on our in house assessment tools. These assessments cover money, health, education, training, family, relationships, accommodation, looking after themselves and having your say. Once these assessments are complete, the outcomes are used to develop the young person’s Preparation for independence plan (residential), in line with any Pathway Plans / Care Plans already in place.

Page 17


When the young person reaches 15 years of age, the care planning system should all be replaced with one plan called the Preparation for Independence plan and will cover all 5 every child matters areas but, focusing on developing their independent skills within each area, which is informed by the assessments as described above. Each of the areas listed above are broken down into further subheadings to ensure a broad range of topics are covered in each subject. The Preparation for Independence plan is reviewed on an ongoing weekly basis, and formally once a month through the supervision process (residential). Throughout the whole process, the young person is kept at the centre through a consultative approach ensuring their views are taken into account and prioritised where appropriate.

The key-worker also ensures that others are also involved in this process (where appropriate).

Others include, but are not limited to:

• Social Worker • Independent Reviewing Officer where applicable • Other agencies (i.e. aftercare) • Parents • Siblings • Extended family members • Significant others

The young person then also has a resource / information pack they may take with them once they leave, which provides all the useful information they require.

PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE

We encourage further education, employment and training. We work with each young person to enable them to be ready for employment, to live independently in the community.

MOVING ON - LEAVING CARE – LEAVING CARE ACT 2000

We understand that moving on can be an unsettling time. We try to make things as easy as possible and ensure that we do this at a pace that is best for the young person and at a time that is realistic and with the maximum outcomes achieved.

Page 18


We will help a young person to achieve as great a degree of independence as possible up to the time of leaving care. We do not believe that the appropriate time to leave care depends on age. We will always work with a young person to develop their skills for independence at a level that is right for them, regardless of their age and at a time that suits them best.

PROMOTING RESILIENCE

Resilience is about being stable, secure, and strong. During their stay with us we promote activities, hobbies and interests that promote resilience and independence away from the care setting. We support contact with friends, family and any social organisation to ensure that our young people have a full and fulfilling social life.

We ensure that our young people will have work experience and as many vocational and academic achievements as is possible. We ensure they have access to local regional and national organisations which can offer support to them in their future.

DETAILED PLANNING

Planning will take place in the time leading up to leaving care to ensure that the correct and agreed plans are in place, so that the young person’s needs are fully met during the next stage in his or her life. Each home will liaise with the child’s responsible authority and their Independent Reviewing Officer regarding the child’s progress and abilities in relation to independence skills to ensure a smooth transition from one service to another. Management will work with leaving care services to ensure that all young people are aware of their entitlements to financial and other support after leaving care.

We will support all young people in our care to establish positive and appropriate social relationships to enable them to have a suitable support network post care. All young people in our care will be encouraged to access education, training and employment to enable them to reach their full potential in the future. We will ensure that all young people are supported to develop practical skills needed for life outside care.

Page 19


12. Positive Outcomes as a Result of Size

Tanglewood is committed to providing small children’s homes as the most effective way in which to provide non institutionalised quality care. The home is a three bedroom children’s home furnished to a high standard. It has been designed to offer the young people accommodated the maximum opportunity to live within a family environment.

Many of the disadvantages of living within an ‘institution’ have been minimised through the provision of:

• A homely atmosphere

• An informal and relaxed approach with clear boundaries

• A philosophy which actively promotes the empowerment and participation of young people

• A small resident group

• Individually tailored placement plans

• Opportunities to undertake a wide range of regular activities

13. Philosophy and Ethos of the Home

Our mission at Tanglewood is to offer young people in crisis, a family environment where they can settle, relax and find stability in their lives. An environment where they will receive understanding, encouragement and support from adults who care, and are trained to work in a professional and non-judgemental manner. Our staff are committed to guiding the young people towards reaching their full potential and preparing them for the responsibilities of future citizenship. We aim to offer each young person placed at Tanglewood a safe and caring environment, where they are treated with respect, courtesy and full recognition of their rights. We operate a caring, nurturing home, with realistic yet clearly defined expectations and boundaries that is responsive to the young person’s immediate needs, where they can experience acceptance and approval in a safe, homely atmosphere. We believe that: The welfare of the young people in our care is our number one priority. Young People who come to stay are placed in an environment that offers them safety, security and care where all members of the staff team working with them have the skills and abilities to help and support them with the range of difficult behaviours they present.

Page 20


Each young person is recognised as unique with specific needs and beliefs that require individual assessment and planning. Each young person has the right to be consulted when decisions are being made regarding his/her future and where possible his/her feelings taken into consideration. Each young person is valued and shown respect and courtesy from our staff team who will give them maximum encouragement and support required in reaching their full potential.

14. Protecting and Promoting Healthy Outcomes

The staff team at Tanglewood are committed to providing high quality primary health care in the areas of emotional Health, physical well being and identifying and maintaining specialist health needs.

The staff team take an active role in promoting all aspects of healthy living. The staff team are pro-active in ensuring that the young person eats a healthy and well balanced diet, develops and maintains a good level personal hygiene develops appropriate sleep routines and takes regular exercise.

The staff team routinely address health issues with young people as detailed by the policies below:

a) Smoking Policy

Our policy is to promote the principle and widely held belief that young people should not smoke because it is detrimental to their health. It would however be naïve of us to have a blanket policy that says `No smoking` as many of the young people referred to us have a smoking addiction. Young People can smoke if they choose to do so with (parental or social services permission under the age of 18) though only in controlled areas and never in the house. Under no circumstances will Tanglewood staff purchase tobacco, and every effort will be made to actively encourage Young People to stop smoking.

Drugs Policy

Tanglewood takes a serious view regarding any of our young people being in the possession of or using illegal substances. In all circumstances, help will be offered to the young person to provide him/her with advice, counselling and support with regard to the issue of drug misuse.

If drugs/illegal substances are brought into the home, then it will be explained to the young person that the police would have to be informed. It would be hope that this would be initially dealt with by our local community police officer who would investigate and advise the young person/staff members of the best possible course of action. It is important to note however, that if a young person was found to be in possession of drugs by a police officer, then prosecution may follow.

Page 21


Alcohol Policy

It is illegal for young people to purchase alcohol under the age of 18 years, if a young person were to bring alcohol into the home, then staff will ask the young person to pour this away, failure to do this will result in staff removing the alcohol and disposing of it accordingly. Support and advice will be offered to any young person who is perceived to have a drink related problem.

b) Food/ Health Promotion

Food Young people are encouraged to take part in the purchasing and preparation of food. In this way they can ensure that particular favourites are purchased and prepared to their liking. We set great importance to the provision of healthy food and attempt to encourage the young people to the benefits of a healthy balanced diet, whilst recognising that many young people prefer fast food type meals.

Health and Medical Arrangements

We aim to ensure all young people placed with us are healthy and happy and one way we achieve this is by making sure they are medically well cared for. The local surgery has male and female doctors available, thus allowing children to have a choice of GP and of their own sex if preferred. Wherever necessary, the GP can refer patients to specialist clinics at our local hospitals, Wishaw General Hospital, Hairmyres Hospital. Young people will also have the opportunity to visit the local dentist and opticians for regular check-ups and assessments. All health checks, assessments and appointments are recorded on each young person, containing all relevant information e.g. routine checks, illness, medication etc. However short the placement with us at Tanglewood we believe in proactive education regarding health issues. Care staff members follow programmes co-ordinated by teaching staff which will cover healthy living and eating, care of your body, personal hygiene, infectious and transmittable diseases, female sanitary care and awareness, contraception, family planning, alcohol, solvents, drug abuse and smoking. Our aim through such programmes is to promote awareness of the benefits of leading a healthy life style. The staff team have an important role in promoting an awareness of health issues and ensuring a healthy lifestyle is encouraged. At a basic level, this involves providing good nutrition, ensuring adequate sleep and an appropriate regard for safety. At Tanglewood we provide the opportunity for good health, whilst working towards preparing young people to take care of their own health and safety. Young people's health needs play an important part in their development, as such, it is vital that any such needs are addressed promptly.

Page 22


We form positive links with health professionals working with the Looked after Children’s Nurse and, if appropriate, independent therapists to create a holistic care programme for our young people. There are various forms of therapy young people can access through Tanglewood should they feel the need to express they past anxieties.

We aim to create an open atmosphere where sexual matters can be discussed so that young people do not feel embarrassed or inhibited to ask questions either individually or in a group situation.

We aim to ensure that young people are able to develop a healthy and responsible attitude to sexual behaviour where they view their sexual development, orientation and sexual health as a positive aspect of their personal and social life through the promotion of values of respect for self and others and personal responsibility.

c) Key Worker Sessions

Each young person placed with us at Tanglewood is allocated two key workers. The staff members have direct responsibility to supervise, support and advocate on behalf of the young person during their placement with us. Each week the young person and the key worker will take time out of the agreed timetable and organise, between themselves and the Manager, a two hour session/activity which is enjoyable but also allows them time to talk and reflect on the last seven to fourteen days. Any worries or concerns the young person might wish to discuss can be dealt with. The salient points from this session are recorded on a Key Worker sheet and signed by the young person and staff member. These sheets are reviewed at the next key worker session.

d) Therapeutic techniques

At Tanglewood for an additional cost we can offer our young people access to therapeutic interventions. These include traditional talk therapies such as counselling and psychotherapy. With those young people where talk therapy is not appropriate we offer a range of creative therapies. These include Play and Sand Tray Therapies, and experiential learning using the outdoors. At an additional cost the therapists we can access offer high standards of service. They are qualified, insured and registered with the BACP, UKCP or EAGALA. They have current enhanced disclosure checks. We have psychotherapists with specialist training in trauma and attachment theory.

Page 23


15. Promoting Educational Outcomes

Our mission is to seek out and secure the best educational provision available locally to meet the needs of the children in our care.

We place great emphasis on the education and development of the young people at Tanglewood and education plays an integral part of day-to-day life within our environment. We believe that a young person's education should suffer the minimum of disruption and arrangements for education as a part of the care plan are taken into account when planning any admission to Partners in Care. Our primary aim is to ensure that wherever possible young people placed at Tanglewood either continues at their existing school or make a positive and speedy transfer to a new one.

Education

At Tanglewood we believe that all children:

• Have capacity to learn and progress

• Should have personalised education packages to suit their needs.

• Like to learn, to be challenged and to interact with others

• Have a right to be consulted and involved in their education.

We also believe that learning:

• Is a lifelong skill that goes far beyond school days and traditional classroom environment

• Can take place in a variety of settings

• Is about the National Curriculum but it is much broader than that;

• Is more likely to take place when conditions for learning are best matched to a child’s individual needs; and

• Is more likely to be successful when the child is involved in planning for his/her learning and has some responsibility for it.

However, we recognise that many children we care for have:

• A negative opinion on previous educational experiences

• Missed a lot of schooling and have significant gaps in their learning;

Page 24


• Disengaged from some or all aspects of their learning or have become disaffected with it;

• Lost confidence in their ability to learn;

• Poor self image of themselves as learners; and are

• Reluctant to return to some or all aspects of learning for a variety of reasons.

Mission

Our mission at Tanglewood is to seek out and secure the best provision for learning locally for children in our care.

Working in partnership with each young person, their parent's (where appropriate), placing authority and local education authority we will strive to find and match a provision that:

• Is up to date and relevant to the young person’s needs.

• Provides real challenge and opportunity.

• Is exciting and fun.

Given that Partners in Care core purpose is caring for young people as opposed to strictly that of an education provider or school, it does not offer teaching on site at any of its homes. It does however, place high value on education and meets the educational needs of each of its young people in two ways, namely by:

• Working closely in partnership with local schools, education authorities and a range of training providers to secure the most appropriate and relevant education provision for each young person.

• Working under the umbrella of our own educational service Eden Park Academy at an additional cost offers thorough baseline assessment, a tailor-made timetable and experienced staff to deliver suitable educational packages to all our young people.

Page 25


During the process of sourcing educational provision, Tanglewood can offer both interim and longer term education, and the opportunity to commence their educational journey by utilising our company school Eden Park Academy based in Carlisle. They can provide the following support:

Key Stage 2 Provision

Years (5 – 6) Age 8 – 11

The school can support to the team at Tanglewood to deliver a range of activities to these age groups. ASDAN and AQA Unit awards provide academic accreditation. Subjects such as basic Literacy, Numeracy, ICT, Arts & Craft and Physical Education will be delivered to all young people in an individualised and structured programme.

Key Stage 3 & 4 Provision

Years (7 – 11) Age 11 - 16

This is our main client group and the school has over 10 years experience working with young people with a range of emotional, behavioural and social difficulties. The school will help young people gain GCSE qualifications or reengage pupils who have missed large sections of school. They can provide an alternative curriculum to pupils who are unable to access a mainstream education and help them gain other certificates and awards. We are able to help pupils who have moved placements continue their education and complete examinations. Key Stage 4 pupils have the opportunity to gain GCSE’s, Access courses, Entry Level Certificates and ASDAN Bronze and Silver Awards, Functional skills.

All students will also have access to Drug, alcohol and sexual health support from external experts and mentors. Workshops in equality & diversity, health & safety, food hygiene and anger management.

Eden Park Academy prides itself on being able to offer:

• A culture in which pupils feel safe, valued and secure.

• A platform where pupils can acquire knowledge and skills relevant to adult life, employment and leisure in a fast changing world

• A high staff to pupil ratio

• A range of effective strategies to develop self awareness, self worth and self discipline.

• Trained experts to help pupils to develop an interest in their own good health and acquire skills to make positive choices and decisions throughout their lives

Page 26


Post 16 Provision / Further Education

Years (12 – 13) Age 16+

Pupils who have completed their compulsory education can still access many services. Education staff can provide support to the care teams: helping the young people find jobs and work placements, learn about independent living and find further education placements.

An effective work related programme lies at the centre of the necessary experience of all students. The programme seeks to raise aspirations and help all students achieve their potential. We are aware that the changing nature of work requires special skills on the part of our students. As adults, they will need to be able to adapt to changing patterns of employment, operate in a climate of competition and be willing to develop new knowledge, skills and competences throughout their working lives.

Through a structured and progressive programme of learning, we expect students to develop an understanding of the demands and challenges of the workplace, the rewards and satisfaction work can bring the rights and responsibilities of employers and employees, and knowledge of the requirements of employers and educational institutions and sources of information and guidance. We also expect them to develop relevant skills, including research, problem-solving and decision-making skills, presentational and communication skills, planning and self-management skills and the confidence needed to operate in the employment market place.

The programme operates with all post 16 young people. Its principal features include • awareness-raising; • personal strengths analysis; • job application and interview skills/body language; • research skills; • careers meetings • information and guidance about post-16 and post-school education and career routes; This work is done with all students in subjects such as Asdan Awards, Employability Qualifications, Environmental studies, Life skills sessions and meetings with employment agents in the local area.

Page 27


16. Recreation, Sporting and Cultural Provisions

Our aim is to engage and develop disaffected young people into learning; using challenging goal orientated outdoor activities.

Tanglewood provides a wide range of recreational and sporting activities provided by a specialist team of qualified instructors. In addition to providing an opportunity to improve individual health, all young people are offered the chance to attain qualifications in their chosen activity.

Outdoor activities provide a practical; hands on approach in achieving personal development.

From this we are able to promote the development of more appropriate cycles of behaviour and help young people in managing the difficulties and challenges they face in a more acceptable and safe manner.

The service includes the following characteristics:

• Provide high quality and safe outdoor activities linked to achievable awards • Extend and enhance learning and personal development through challenging

outdoor activities. • Provide students with varied and different learning experiences to raise their

understanding and awareness of the whole curriculum. • Promote fitness and healthy living. • Work towards paired or group sessions to increase social skills and develop trust

and relationships. • Build self confidence. • Provide a progression in skills relative to student ability. • Develop an understanding of outdoor and environmental issues.

Page 28


Curriculum:

Outdoor, environment sport and fitness, covers a wide and varied set of curriculum outcomes, these currently include:- AQA unit award scheme, ASDAN, Duke of Edinburgh and the John Muir Award.

Examples of available activities;

Climbing, Canoeing, Gorge Walking, Abseiling, Badminton, Swimming, squash, orienteering, wild camping, sailing, mountain biking, biviing and problem solving etc

17. Consultation with Children and Young People

“KEEPING CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE AT THE CENTRE OF ALL WE DO”

We believe that young people have the right to be consulted about the way in which they are cared for. Participation and Involvement is key to ensuring children and young people are listened to, involved and their views taken seriously. Our commitment to Participation and Involvement is central to the way we work.

The UN Convention of the rights of the child underpins all of our work. We have adopted the national set of standards for participation known as “Here by Right”.

We are committed to ensuring:

• The participation of children and young people in our care ‘is valued and their views are taken seriously’

• The participation of children and young people in our care is ‘a visible commitment that is properly resourced’

• Children and young people in our care have ‘equal opportunities to participate in the company’

• The participation of children and young people is ‘supported by policies and standards.

We offer a wide range of fun, safe, participation and involvement opportunities for all of our young people, ensuring that everyone has a chance to have their say, in ways that suit them best.

All young people in our care have and will continue to have the opportunity to become involved in staff meetings, supervision and recruitment of staff, key worker sessions, young person’s weekly meetings, compiling weekly menu’s and activity planners. In

Page 29


addition to their involvement within the home, the young people have also had the opportunity to be involved in compiling a DVD to hand to young people on arrival, attend youth board meetings, reading important documents and giving them the KISS (keep it short and simple) of approval to ensure they are legible and easy to understand for readers of all age ranges and abilities.

18. Control, Restraint and Discipline

At Tanglewood we recognise that it is easy to fall into the trap of setting boundaries and reinforcing these with sanctions as opposed to rewards. Our philosophy is to respond to positive behaviour using positive reinforcements and rewards and placing emphasis on modelling and observational behaviours.

Control at Tanglewood is maintained on the basis of positive personal and professional relationships between staff and the young people in our care. It is recognised that a home in which good behaviour is praised and rewarded, it is a preferable alternative to the punishment of negative behaviour; in that, by providing a positive, supportive and safe environment, staff may be able to divert a young person’s energies away from destructive and inappropriate behaviour.

All staff are fully trained in Crisis Aggression Limitation and Management which is accredited, this places an emphasis on de-escalation techniques, the purpose of physical intervention and what behaviours constitute its use. All staff are trained to understand that it is essential to use the techniques to reduce the need for restraint, which is only undertaken as a last resort. It also includes the points where young people require support, prior to and after an incident. This is a four day course initially, with an annual re-accreditation.

Members of staff will provide positive reinforcement by:

• Listening to what young people say • Recognising and acknowledging achievements or positive efforts - no matter

how insignificant they may seem to the young people • Speaking in a polite and courteous manner at all times • Encouraging and supporting young people to perform a task • Facial expressions - a nod or a smile • Gestures - an approving hand briefly on arm or shoulder

We are aware that with more severely damaged young people there may be a need to provide more tangible rewards and reinforcements at least for a short period of time. Finding something that is important to each young person at that time, something meaningful to the individual can act as a motivator towards more positive behaviour. At Tanglewood we will actively work towards the young person wanting to produce the desired behaviour.

Page 30


We are aware we will not be able to eradicate a young person’s negative behaviours overnight, therefore; to enable our home to function as a harmonious community, there are some boundaries and restrictions on certain types of behaviour.

Accordingly, when limits are set, they are consistently applied by staff and are discussed with the young person concerned; in order that they understand why a particular action has been taken.

Where consequences are deemed necessary, it is important that these are seen to be relevant and they are never used as retribution, revenge or to be seen as a means to dis-empower young people. Consequences are designed to encourage young people to "stop and think" and to make appropriate decisions about their behaviour in the future.

Therefore, young people are consulted in the process of consequences as to what consequence they deem appropriate for their behaviour, providing them with an opportunity to understand why the process is necessary to support changes in their conduct.

Plausible Consequences: Restitution, reparation for damage, curtailment of leisure activities or increased supervision. Financial reparation, priviliges not achieved and supervised spends.

All sanctions administered will be recorded in the specific log book for this purpose, this will include in each entry, the name of the young person, date of misdemeanour, details of the inappropriate behaviour, names of staff present and nature of the sanction. Each entry will be countersigned by the Registered Manager or Area Manager and signed by the young person.

Physical Intervention Policy

As a general rule, physical intervention of young people is rarely used and only if the young person is at risk of harming themselves, others, or of seriously damaging property.

The staff team will all be trained in physical intervention techniques and the knowledge to recognise causes and triggers in negative behaviours. Additionally, staff will have the ability to utilise a variety of diffusion techniques that can be used to prevent crisis point. Only at crisis point are staff authorised to use restraint methods that keep the young person or others around them safe.

Angry or violent outbursts can leave a young person feeling low, vulnerable, exhausted and alone. Once a restraint has taken place, a review of the incident is always suitably timed for when the young person has had a chance to recover, whilst ensuring the incident is still fresh in their minds. This is designed to support the young person in exploring their behaviour and considering other ways of dealing with their feelings in the future.

Page 31


19. Child Protection and Countering Bullying

Child Protection Procedures

Tanglewood has designated the Registered Manager as the Child Protection Officer within each home. In addition, all members of staff are made aware of their role and accountability in Child Protection matters and receive training in relevant and up to date Safeguarding procedures and access to all relevant Local Safeguarding Policies and Procedures. All new members of staff follow a comprehensive induction programme including Child Protection, to raise awareness and understanding of neglect, abuse and protection. Staff will receive regular supervision in conjunction with their training and re-focusing meetings will be held to discuss any issues and/or plan for the future.

Policy to reduce the Incidence of Bullying

Tanglewood takes all acts of bullying seriously. The staff team receive training in bullying awareness and are vigilant and aware that bullying could take place even within the small group of young people living in our home. All young people have the right to be protected from bullying and from the fear of being bullied. All young people are aware that Tanglewood is a zero tolerance home and bullying will not be accepted at any time. Young people are made to feel safe and any issues of bullying will be dealt with immediately, this will be evidenced through Residents meetings and through key working sessions.

At Tanglewood we aim to create a culture and communication network where young people are easily able to confide in each other or staff if they are being bullied. Even with effective communication systems we realise that the problem needs a pro-active approach.

An anti-bullying guidance and information programme is available for staff.

Brochures/leaflets are available for young people.

The credibility of our policy regarding bullying depends on the staff in the home taking agreed action when bullying arises.

(Please refer to our policies and procedure document that can be viewed in the home which outlines agreed lines of action taken if bullying occurs.)

Page 32


20. Unauthorised Absences

Each young person living at Tanglewood has a designated latest time for returning to the home or from free time. These times are based on their age, level of independence and the views of parents and social workers. Our written guidelines allow for an element of flexibility so that later times can be negotiated for special occasions and situations. These times will not normally be past 23.00 hours irrespective of the person's age.

Any young person will be considered missing when they have failed to return at a pre- arranged time. Once it is suspected that the young person is missing, a thorough and careful search of the house, garden and immediate area will be initiated. If after this search there is still no sign of the young person and a period of time as prescribed in the individuals Risk Assessment has elapsed, then the young person will be reported to the police.

After reporting the matter to the police, staff will then notify the young person’s social worker (Emergency Duty Team if at night) and the family if this is deemed relevant. All correspondence with times of phone calls will be recorded. It is our policy that if there is any doubt regarding the safety of any young person, the police will be notified immediately. When a young person returns to the house, either through their own volition or returned by police or staff members; we will ensure their immediate needs are addressed initially then establish an appropriate time to discuss with them why they went missing. They will be given the opportunity to speak to someone independent of the home, such as social worker, independent visitor, advocate or family. Safeguarding Procedures

Considerations will be given as to whether the safeguarding procedures should be invoked. Absences of 12 hours, 24 hours, and 48 hours by a child or young person will be reported to the placing authority and the Child Care Resources Manager as well as the police.

All staff at Tanglewood are aware that for the young person who is frequently absent from the home, the best planning and the most thoroughly considered strategies can only work if they are supported by a care environment of the highest quality and of which the young person wants to belong.

Page 33


21. Surveillance within the Home

Many of our homes have fitted alarms on some of the young person’s bedroom doors to ensure their safety and welfare is of paramount importance. Based on the needs of each young person, alarms may be fitted to their bedroom doors; these alert the staff during the night if waking night staff are not deemed necessary. This will be agreed in consultation with the placing authority.

22. Fire and Emergency Procedures within the Home

Fire Precautions

Fire drills and fire checks are exercised and recorded regularly.

We ensure all adequate precautions are taken against the risk of fire and that ample arrangements are made for warning of fire and for the evacuation of the building in the event of fire. The building has a full fire alarm system which is tested weekly. Fire regulations are adhered to and fire drills are carried out at a minimum of quarterly periods, or more often for new residents or staff and recorded accordingly. It is important that all staff and young people new to the home are shown the fire exits and assembly points. Following the induction process, all staff are required to sign the fire record book to evidence they are fully aware of fire procedures and have an understanding of following preventative measures. The home is staffed 24 hours a day and staff are available at night if they are needed. There is a rota to ensure a manager or senior member of staff are contact around the clock. Any outbreak of a fire requiring evacuation of our house by the young people will be notified to the responsible authority and the home’s registered Inspection Unit. If young people bring electrical equipment, we will ensure these are tested and safe to use throughout the duration of their stay. This will ensure none of the equipment is faulty, therefore reducing the risk of fire. If we find it is faulty, it will be our priority to replace the lead before use.

Emergency Plans:

Tanglewood has a contingency plan File No 7 in the event of an emergency, this will be implemented in the event of an emergency concerning gas, water, electric and other situations where the home should be evacuated. All staff working at the home are aware of this procedure.

Page 34


23. Arrangements for Religious Observance and Instruction

Every young person will have the opportunity to attend religious services and receive instructions that are appropriate to the religious persuasion in which the young person may belong. Whilst resident at our home, all efforts will be made to provide the young person with facilities for religious observance such as special diets, clothing and learning etc. Every effort will be made to locate places of worship specific to each young person where required. The staff team are sensitive to the spiritual needs of young people and will endeavour to ensure the cultural, racial and linguistic needs of each individual are addressed. If particular clothing, hair and/or skin care is required then an additional allowance will be set up to meet the young person’s needs.

All staff will actively seek any necessary information required to guide them in supporting each young person’s religious and cultural background.

24. Contact Arrangements

Family Contact

Every opportunity will be taken to encourage the maintenance of appropriate family links, and to help parents build upon or in some cases, re-establish contact with their children. In partnership with a young person’s parents and family (where appropriate), social worker and placing authority, members of staff at Tanglewood are committed to assisting each young person in planning for their future. Where it is appropriate to do so, to ensure consistency and continuity, we promote the maintenance and development of stable long term relationships between family and friends and familiar lifestyles and this plays an important part in the work we do.

We will aim to ensure that families are kept fully informed regarding any changes, developments and care plan arrangements. We feel it is extremely important to encourage families to maintain contact and visit as often as possible.

In special circumstances, if specified by a Court Order or agreed as part of the individuals care, the placing authority may request Tanglewood to restrict contact or visits from certain people.

Within the welcome booklet young people are provided with the procedures for visitors to the home. No young person is expected to see a visitor that they do not wish any contact with. No visitor to the home will be allowed contact with any young person residing there apart from the young person they are visiting.

Where detailed in the care plan, supervised telephone contacts are arranged. In general, calls should be taken and received at convenient times:-

Page 35


No calls are permitted during mealtimes, or once the young person has retired for the night, unless in an emergency, which will be closely monitored by staff • Other than when directed by the placing authority, young people can send mail and

receive mail which will not be opened by staff • Recognising that residential care has a special role to play in the contact process,

we can provide a natural setting with supporting or supervising staff available if requested.

Continuity of relationships is important, and attachments will be respected, sustained and developed where possible. We feel it is important to show an interest in home visits and how best to support the family and young person in maintaining positive healthy relationships. For some young people, specific strategies may need to be developed to manage behaviour on return from a home visit or after a difficult telephone call. Partnerships with parents are crucial to ensuring that young people retain and build their identity.

25. Complaints

Any young person whose behaviour results in a sanction has the right to make a complaint about the situation. This process is outlined in the complaints procedure.

Tanglewood provides a professional, caring service to young people from a difficult client group. It would be naïve to believe that no problems or incidents will occur during placement. It is important that the young people can voice a complaint about any issues during their placement.

Information on how to make a complaint and who can help support their rights is given to each young person in their information booklet, provided to them when they arrive at our home.

Young People will need to feel confident in knowing they have the right to raise matters concerning them, and feel assured they will be listened to and treated fairly. At times, a young person may face difficulties, feel unfairly or badly treated, or feel they are not being listened to. The first step is for staff to do their best to take steps to resolve any problems by talking with the young person who may be experiencing difficulties. This can be done verbally or in writing and complaint forms are available in each house. Envelopes are provided for those young people who do not have the confidence to speak up, enabling them to write down their concerns, knowing they will be dealt with sensitively. These can then be posted in the secure comments, compliments and complaints and niggles box. The knowledge that they have been listened to and they have been dealt with fairly will give young people more confidence to broach other matters should the need arise.

Young people have the right to make a complaint in other ways such as by contacting their social worker, by contacting an appropriate third party e.g. a parent, independent listener.

Page 36


The manager will respond to any complaint made by family, relatives, social worker, or advocate etc. as soon as possible. An investigation will then take place, and where necessary a full report will be submitted to the complainant. A copy of this report will be sent to the young person's social worker.

When necessary a complaint may be brought to the notice of:

• The appropriate authority i.e.; the referring authority, the placing authority. • The parents/guardians • Care Inspectorate • The Children’s Rights Director • Police We believe that, where problems do arise; it is far better if the people involved discuss them immediately. There are weekly house meetings for young people to discuss issues and general matters. Prompt resolution has the propensity to avoid young people becoming frustrated and angry. Complaints dealt with in this way will be recorded in the homes Complaints Record and is available to visiting inspectors.

Young people can complain in a variety of ways:

Speak directly to a member of staff

Speak to their social worker or family

Contact their Independent Reviewing Officer

With a Person who can speak on their behalf

Care Inspectorate

Tanglewood recognises that the process of making a complaint and being listened to is an important part of the caring process. A list of telephone numbers is provided in the Young Persons Booklet for the young person to ring to make a complaint or for extra support.

Page 37


The address and telephone number of our local Care Commission Inspectorate is:

Care Commission Officer Solway House Dumfries Enterprise Park Timwald Downs Road DUMFRIES DG1 3SJ Telephone: 01387 734980

Children’ Rights Officer

Ray McLean

Tel:07787 560 471

E Mail: [email protected]

Tel Head Office: 0141 226 4441

26. Review of Placement Plans

Arrangements for Statutory Child in Care reviews

Section 26 of The Children Act 1989 updated 2004 requires that Looked after Children have their Care Plans regularly reviewed. Tanglewood aims to ensure that placing authorities follow the statutory review system:

• The first review in placement will be shortly after 28 days, unless there has been an emergency placement which requires a meeting within 72 hours.

• The second review should be no later than 3 months.

• Reviewed regularly every 6 months

Due to the nature of the referrals, we are aware it may be necessary, on certain occasions, to hold reviews more frequently than this and we will ensure this is facilitated.

Page 38

Tel:07787


27. Therapeutic Techniques Undertaken

It is expected that all work undertaken in the home with the young people will have a therapeutic effect on them and that this philosophy will underpin all approaches to children.

This will be achieved by:

1. Tanglewood will endeavour to promote a family environment. It aims to develop strong and stable attachments between staff and young people where there is a mutual trust and respect. Staff should be positive role models and young people are expected to try and conform to the norm of social behaviour.

2. The home will work with the young person on a holistic basis and will implement strategies across the staff team to address the young persons presenting issues including (but not exclusively) behaviour, communication, health, interpersonal skills, education and leisure needs.

Staff view their work with young people placed at Tanglewood as being on a continuum of good practice and the staff team are all always striving to improve services to young people and always look for new ways and innovative approaches to motivate them. Integral in the work undertaken with the young people is an understanding within the team that without a safe and secure staff team, high quality direct work with young people will not flourish.

28. Anti-Discriminatory Practice and Children’s Rights

Tanglewood are committed to ensuring equality of opportunities, anti-discrimination and anti-racism and draw attention of the staff and residents, families and referring authorities to our Equal Opportunities Policy.

The Equal Opportunities policy states that Partners in Care is committed to eliminating discrimination and encouraging diversity amongst our workforce and young people. Our aim is that our workforce will be truly representative of all sections of society and each employee feels respected and able to give their best.

It is the continuing policy of Partners in Care to provide equal opportunity employment to all employees and applicants, without regard to:

• Gender (including sex, marriage, pregnancy, maternity leave, gender re-assignment, sexual orientation)

• Race (including ethnic origin, colour, citizenship, nationality, and national origin) • Disability • Religion or belief • Age

Page 39


All employees whether full-time, part-time or temporary, will be treated fairly and with respect. This policy applies to all employment decisions, including those in connection with:

• Recruitment selection, promotion and advertisement of jobs; • Terms and conditions of employment including pay; • Training, career development and progression; • Grievance and disciplinary procedures; • Relationships between members of staff. • Each employee of Partners in Care has an obligation to promote an equal

opportunity environment within the Company. As an employee, they have a duty to observe and apply this policy at all times.

Violation of the policy is a serious offence and could result in disciplinary action and/or summary dismissal.

The head of each care section will, with the assistance and co-operation of senior management ensure compliance with this policy. This will include regular reviews of quality issues, monitoring activities and complaints. All employees of Partners in Care will also receive adequate training on the correct operation of this policy and in Equality and Diversity.

Each employee has an obligation to promote an equal opportunity environment within the Company.

Tanglewood requires individuals to promote equality of opportunity, anti-discrimination and anti-racism. This should be placed at the heart of good practise for Tanglewood and it is the duty of everyone to report, resolve and monitor any discriminatory practise they observe.

29. Monitoring and Review

Inspection Unit

Our local Inspector from Ofsted has the legal responsibility to inspect Tanglewood to monitor the quality of life and quality of care being offered to the young people placed here, and to ensure that the home is run in accordance with all relevant regulations. Monthly Audit The Area Manager and Registered Manager undertake a monthly audit of the home. This is to ensure all policies; procedures, administration and care standards are monitored and implemented to ensure we continue to be a leading care provider.

Page 40


Inspect our homes yourself Before you place a young person in our care; or if you are a parent of a child who might be placed with us; then please feel free to arrange a visit to Tanglewood to inspect our home and talk to our staff about the care we can provide.

30. Addendums.

Page 41

tanglewood statement of purpose - partners in care · tanglewood - biggar statement of purpose 1....

Documents