We believe that all children should be offered the same chances and opportunities in life. We work together with the children at Harmony, as well as others involved in their care, to reduce the impact of difficult past experiences. To achieve this, we deliver a clear care approach that creates opportunities for positive interactions.
If any young people require low level personal care from the team, we will ensure this is agreed with the placing authority and with the consent of persons with parental responsibility. As well as one to one discussions, risk assessments will be completed.
To create reassuring experiences, a clear care approach is adopted to encourage consistent staff behaviour. This approach helps the team to fully understand their role in the young person’s recovery, and the crucial role they play in constructing and maintaining a positive, caring environment.
We provide a comprehensive assessment and review process for every young person when they arrive at The Hollies to ensure they have the right support package in place. The reviews help the key workers to develop plans which are centered around the young persons’ needs to identify areas that may require further support.
We are always working towards positive outcomes for all parties involved in the home, particularly when a young person is struggling to adjust to the new environment. Our ethos is to build relationships, so children and young people are able to progress into life as equipped and confident young people.
Meeting the mental health needs of young people in the care system continues to be a prominent driver of government policy and practice guidance. Harmony Childcare work collaboratively with local CAMHS services and other specialist teams to help young people struggling with mental health issues.
We believe it is essential to undertake an assessment at referral, intake and at strategic points during the placement. The initial assessment will incorporate key domains of the young person’s development including educational, behavioural, social and learning skills.
The assessment period’s findings will inform the placement plan, treatment goals and educational needs and crucially, define the parameters for outcome. Placement plans must reflect and accommodate these changes, with support from external agencies like CAMHS. Young people will be encouraged to attend any appointments with these professional services.