Welcome to Care

From the point of admission each young person will commence a 22 day period of assessment. Assessment is the starting point of our work with the young person. The assessment process is an opportunity for workers to model pro-social behaviour by reinforcing personal responsibility and accountability.

Assessment involves gathering and analysing information so as to ascertain the level and type of risk posed by, and the criminogenic and welfare needs of, the young person. The Asset framework is the assessment tool used within the unit. The Asset Tool provides a holistic and robust risk assessment from which to identify a range of approaches and interventions designed to meet the needs of each individual young person.

In the Secure/Close Support Unit we see everything that occurs daily between young people and staff as potential opportunities for enhancing the young person?s development. By this we mean the daily events of group living are utilised to meet the complex range of needs of our young people. Daily events can be used to: convey care and affection to the young person; enhance communication skills; teach problem- solving skills, social skills and life skills. These daily interactions most importantly provide ample opportunities for engagement with our young people, relationship building, and enhancement of the young person?s self esteem.

Our approach can be defined as eclectic as it is understood that no one theory can adequately respond to the complex feelings needs and behaviours presented by the young people in our care. It is underpinned by a therapeutic, trauma informed and attachment based perspective. Great importance is attached to a holistic approach in which the young person is recognised as a real and whole person from a real family and community.