Partnerships
Although an independent organisation the Centre works collaboratively with many partners thus ensuring that all young people are offered a high quality service.
The Centre works in partnership with the statutory bodies of Scotland charged with the Inspection and Registration of residential schools. The advice and guidance offered by officers of the Care Commission and Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Education is acted upon and implemented as appropriate. The Centre is committed to the well being of Scotland's Child Protection, Whistle-blowing and Advocacy thus providing a safe and secure environment for young people to flourish.
Representatives of organisations charged with protecting the rights of young people are welcomed within the Centre. Workers from organisations such as Who Cares (Scotland) and the Children's Rights Officers of placing authorities have open access to the Centre and our young people. All young people have access to a telephone and the telephone numbers of Child Line are on display.
From time to time young people may feel that they have a complaint to make. All complaints regardless of their nature are treated in a confidential and sympathetic manner. The centre has a complaints procedure for both young people and staff. All residents have access to complaint forms and are given assistance if necessary to articulate their complaint. Young people and staff have the right to contact the Care Commission with regard to their complaint if necessary.
The Centre works in partnership with placing authorities in ensuring that the young person receives care, education and any other service appropriate to their needs. Regular meetings are held to discuss the young persons placement with agreed decisions clearly noted and acted upon.
At all times Centre staff attempt to work in a collaborative and cohesive manner with parents / guardians and carers in the pursuit of positive outcomes for the young people. Parents / guardians and carers are encouraged to share their views and concerns in open dialogue with unit staff and Centre Management.
All workers in the Centre are bound by the code of practice for employees as laid out by the Scottish Social Services Council or other professional governing bodies. The Centre recognises the need for the ongoing professional development of staff and has its own training agency however if appropriate training and development is sought from recognised providers.
The Centre's voluntary Board of Managers are the employers and overseers of the work carried out by Centre staff. Advice and support is available from the Board on all matters. The Board meets monthly and more often if necessary where all pertinent issues are discussed enduring the effective management of the Centre. The Board is advised by an Official Correspondent.