SL welcome guide - Hider - JULY 23 (2)
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Supported Living<br />
<strong>welcome</strong> <strong>guide</strong><br />
<strong>Hider</strong>
www.fairways.co
Contents<br />
about us 4<br />
staff team 5<br />
accommodation 6&7<br />
house rules 8<br />
entitlements 9<br />
support 10<br />
taking responsibility 11<br />
education &<br />
employment<br />
12<br />
expectations 13<br />
Absent from the home 14<br />
useful to know 15<br />
key contacts 16<br />
If reading this <strong>guide</strong> is challenging, don't hesitate to seek help. We're here to support you. Request<br />
assistance from our team or reach out to someone you trust. Accessibility is essential, and we aim to<br />
make knowledge inclusive for all.
About us<br />
Fair Ways offers accommodation for young people under the local authority's care, typically aged 16 to<br />
18. We focus on developing essential life skills, including cooking, safe living, and semi-independent<br />
living while respecting the home and fellow residents. Our staff assists in finding educational or<br />
employment opportunities, managing health, making positive decisions, and handling finances. Our<br />
goal is to prepare you for complete independence, equipping you with the necessary tools and<br />
knowledge for a successful future.<br />
We understand that transitioning to a new home with unfamiliar faces can be challenging. However, we<br />
are committed to providing unwavering support without judgment, no matter the circumstances. Please<br />
know that we are dedicated to assisting you with any physical, emotional, or mental health difficulties.<br />
While we may not have immediate answers, we will work with you to find the help or direction you<br />
need.<br />
Our top priority is your fulfilling and enjoyable stay with us. We aim for your personal growth and<br />
meaningful relationships with our team. Our objective is to offer an enriching and secure experience,<br />
preparing you to navigate the world confidently after leaving supported living. Our dedicated team is<br />
committed to your comfort and providing the necessary resources for your success.
Staff team<br />
Meghan<br />
Teresa<br />
TBC<br />
Georgette<br />
Support Worker<br />
Senior Support Worker<br />
Deputy Manager<br />
Senior Support Worker<br />
Dedicated staff are available to provide assistance and support throughout your<br />
stay. Trained and qualified, they meet stringent safety requirements. You will be<br />
assigned a key worker to address your care needs, including health<br />
appointments. Staff work in shifts to maintain appropriate staffing levels day and<br />
night, ensuring effective planning and communication. Feel free to approach<br />
them for any help.<br />
<br />
Please be aware that the management team for Supported Living consists of:<br />
<br />
Jim Windebank: Head of Service<br />
Charlene Hacking: Operations Manager<br />
TBC: Deputy Manager for <strong>Hider</strong>
Accommodation<br />
Conveniently located near the heart of Southampton City centre, our home offers easy access to a variety of amenities,<br />
including shops, transportation links, and educational and employment opportunities.<br />
The 'Sholing' train station is conveniently close, just 0.5 miles away, reachable within a quick 10-minute walk. Moreover,<br />
there are nearby bus stops and local taxi services easily accessible.<br />
For those seeking higher education, 'Itchen College' is just a short 20-minute public transport journey away, providing<br />
accessible opportunities for learning and skill development.<br />
Additionally, supermarkets are within walking distance from the home, ensuring effortless access to grocery shopping.<br />
The home accommodates up to 5 young people, featuring shared<br />
spaces like a communal lounge, bathroom, and kitchen. Your<br />
individual bedroom comes furnished with furniture, a fridge, a TV,<br />
and Wi-Fi.<br />
<br />
Upon move-in, we provide fresh bedding and a <strong>welcome</strong> pack with<br />
towels, and toiletries for your comfort. Here are pictures of one of our<br />
properties to give you an idea of what to expect.
<strong>Hider</strong><br />
Upon moving in, you will have your own personal room that you can customize with a provided budget,<br />
and our staff will support you in this process. Your room will only be entered with your explicit permission,<br />
except in health and safety emergencies, where staff will seek consent.<br />
<br />
You will receive keys to both the front door and your bedroom door. It is recommended to lock your<br />
bedroom when away to protect your belongings. We cannot be held responsible for lost or stolen items, so<br />
please take necessary precautions. Assistance in keeping your room clean will be provided based on valid<br />
reasons or health and safety concerns.<br />
<br />
CCTV cameras are in operation outside the home to ensure everyone's safety.<br />
At Fair Ways, each home is equipped with Wi-Fi to offer<br />
you the convenience of staying connected with friends and<br />
family through apps like WhatsApp. We encourage you to<br />
use this privilege responsibly.<br />
<br />
However, we prioritize your well-being and safety above<br />
all else. In the event of any concerns or potential harm, Wi-<br />
Fi privileges may be restricted or revoked. This decision<br />
will be made in consultation with your social worker or<br />
personal assistant to ensure your safety and best interests<br />
are protected.<br />
At Fair Ways, we focus on providing support rather than traditional<br />
care, which may differ from your previous living arrangements. Our<br />
role is to offer guidance and assistance, but there are limitations; we<br />
cannot control your finances, restrict your freedom to go out, or make<br />
decisions on your behalf.<br />
<br />
To meet your specific needs, you'll have allocated weekly support<br />
hours tailored to you. The home will have staff available throughout<br />
the day and evening, with a sleep-in staff member present every<br />
night for continuous support.<br />
Visitors are <strong>welcome</strong> on the premises between 09:30 am - 10:00 pm daily. Friends must present identification, sign<br />
the visitor's book, and be at least 16 years old (excluding family members).<br />
<br />
One guest is allowed at a time, and overnight stays are not permitted. All visitors must follow house rules, and failure<br />
to do so may lead to them being asked to leave. It is your responsibility to ensure your visitors respect the house<br />
expectations and rules. Please communicate this to your guests accordingly.
House rules<br />
During your stay, we will discuss house rules to promote harmonious relationships and mutual respect among<br />
residents. These rules prioritize everyone's well-being and ensure a sense of security.<br />
<br />
Some rules are non-negotiable and will be thoroughly explained by staff. Feel free to engage in open dialogue<br />
with staff for any inquiries or clarifications. A comprehensive understanding of the rules is essential for their<br />
effective implementation.<br />
The rules include:<br />
We strictly prohibit violence, intimidation, or bullying in any form.<br />
It is crucial to refrain from intentionally damaging any property owned or provided by Fair Ways.<br />
The introduction of illegal drugs or alcohol into the home is strictly prohibited.<br />
Bringing pets or animals into the property is not allowed unless prior discussion and approval from management have<br />
taken place. Special circumstances will be considered, taking into account the presence of other residents and<br />
associated risks.<br />
To respect the community and fellow residents, please keep music and noise levels at a reasonable level.<br />
Respect others' privacy and safety by obtaining consent before entering other residents' bedrooms. Safety measures<br />
such as keeping the door open may be necessary.<br />
Theft, whether from Fair Ways or fellow residents, is strictly forbidden.<br />
Please dress appropriately within communal areas to maintain a respectful atmosphere.<br />
Failure to comply with the above <strong>guide</strong>lines may lead to a review of the suitability of your placement.
Entitlements<br />
Key worker<br />
Upon your arrival, you will be assigned a dedicated key worker who will serve as your primary point of contact and advocate. The key worker's role<br />
entails establishing a trusting relationship with you, providing guidance on your entitlements, and keeping you informed about any relevant<br />
updates or changes on a regular basis.<br />
Outcome star<br />
A personalised Outcome Star is developed in collaboration with you, identifying your specific needs, goals, and entitlements. This comprehensive<br />
plan is regularly reviewed and updated with your active participation, ensuring that you remain informed about your entitlements and the progress<br />
made towards attaining your goals.<br />
Advocacy<br />
You will receive assistance and guidance from your social worker to access advocacy services. Alongside your key worker, external advocates can<br />
also be engaged to provide additional support as needed.<br />
House meetings<br />
These meetings offer a valuable platform for you to engage in discussions about your entitlements, address any concerns or issues you may have,<br />
and ensure that your voice is heard and your rights are upheld within a group setting. They also provide an opportunity for you to contribute ideas<br />
and suggestions for bringing about positive changes.<br />
Regular communication<br />
We prioritise open and transparent communication channels between you and our staff members, ensuring regular check-ins and the dissemination<br />
of important updates through notice boards. Furthermore, our staff will provide updates following any meetings with professionals, keeping you<br />
informed about relevant developments and maintaining a consistent flow of information.<br />
Consent forms<br />
Our objective is to provide you with exceptional support, which necessitates maintaining records about you. Rest assured that this information is<br />
shared solely with the relevant professionals involved in your care. At the commencement of your placement with Fair Ways, you will receive a<br />
Consent to Share Information Form containing more comprehensive details, which you will have the opportunity to read and sign.<br />
<br />
We prioritise obtaining your consent when sharing information, ensuring that you have the right to refuse without facing any negative<br />
consequences. Additionally, we make it easy for you to withdraw your consent at any time, and we will clearly communicate the process for doing<br />
so.
Support<br />
Food shopping<br />
Once a week, staff will accompany you on a food shopping trip to a nearby supermarket or retailer. This helps you acquire groceries for the<br />
upcoming week and develop skills for independent living. You have the freedom to choose items based on your preferences, but healthy choices are<br />
encouraged. Staff will assist with reasonable decisions and offer financial management suggestions. Using a shopping list will help organize<br />
purchases and ensure you get everything needed.<br />
Cooking<br />
We encourage independence by having residents prepare their meals with staff assistance as needed. Please clean up after using the kitchen to<br />
maintain its accessibility for others. You have control over your food choices from the weekly shopping trip. There will be a communal house meal<br />
once a week, prepared collaboratively by staff and residents, fostering a shared dining experience.<br />
Allowance<br />
Each young person will receive a payment comparable to a job seekers allowance, covering food shopping, toiletries, and other expenses. The<br />
method of receiving the allowance will be determined through discussions with your social worker. £25 is typically set aside for food shopping. Staff<br />
will encourage saving a portion of the allowance to develop financial responsibility. There is an opportunity to earn an additional £10 per week<br />
through personalized incentives, such as punctuality or contributing to house tasks.<br />
Meetings & appointments<br />
Our staff will keep you informed about upcoming meetings and appointments, providing support until you feel comfortable attending on your own.<br />
We use a notice board for important announcements and schedules to help you plan and prepare. Prompt attendance at local medical<br />
appointments is essential, and our staff will <strong>guide</strong> and assist you in navigating healthcare services.<br />
Physical & mental health support<br />
Our primary goal is your well-being through comprehensive support. We conduct risk assessments and create personalised support plans to<br />
understand your needs better. If we have welfare concerns, we communicate them promptly to you and your professional network to foster effective<br />
collaboration in addressing issues. Open and transparent communication helps safeguard your well-being and ensures you receive appropriate<br />
support at all times.
Taking Responsibility<br />
Tidiness<br />
Keeping a clean and hygienic living environment fosters respect for the home and fellow residents. You will receive clear cleaning instructions and<br />
are expected to fulfill daily tasks. Active participation may lead to rewards as a gesture of appreciation for your dedication.<br />
Timekeeping<br />
To ensure personal safety and property security, it is crucial that both you and the staff are aware of your planned absences from the home, as well<br />
as the expected times of departure and return. While Fair Ways respects your freedom to leave the house, we kindly request that you inform the<br />
staff of your departure and return for health and safety purposes. This proactive communication helps maintain a secure and supportive<br />
environment.<br />
Security<br />
Ensuring household security is paramount. Please lock appropriate doors and take responsibility for your guests. Protect your bedroom by locking it<br />
with the provided key. Fair Ways cannot be held responsible for loss or damage to items in bedrooms. CCTV cameras are installed for overall<br />
property security and safety.<br />
Medication<br />
You are responsible for self-administering prescribed medication. Fair Ways do not hold medication for residents. Staff can provide reminders but<br />
cannot administer, record, or store medication. A lockable medical cabinet in your bedroom will securely store your medication, and staff will have a<br />
spare key if needed.<br />
Use of communal areas<br />
You will be granted complete access to the shared areas of the home, and it is expected that you take on the responsibility of maintaining<br />
cleanliness in these spaces. It is important to clean up after yourself and leave the areas in a satisfactory state. Living in a communal home requires<br />
mutual respect among residents, so please be mindful of others and their living experience.<br />
Respecting neighbours<br />
Showing respect towards both your neighbours and the local community is crucial, and this includes being mindful of the noise levels you generate.
Education and Employment<br />
We will actively encourage and support you to pursue education and employment opportunities while you are<br />
residing with us. If you are already enrolled in education, we will assist you in attending your classes and<br />
provide the necessary support.<br />
<br />
We recognise that each individual has unique learning styles and aspirations. Our dedicated team is here to<br />
assist you in various ways, including arranging college interviews, exploring apprenticeships, and assisting<br />
with job searches.<br />
<br />
Rest assured, if you secure employment or engage in education, you will still receive your allowance.<br />
<br />
We are committed to providing comprehensive assistance and support in any way we can.<br />
<br />
At Fair Ways, we have an "education lead" who specializes in supporting you with various educational needs.<br />
This may involve helping with application forms or preparing for interviews. If you require any assistance,<br />
please don't hesitate to speak to our staff, who will make the necessary arrangements for you.
Expectations<br />
Smoking<br />
We acknowledge that individuals may opt to smoke, and we kindly request that you utilize the designated outdoor area and provided ashtrays for<br />
this purpose.<br />
<br />
To ensure the safety of everyone in the home, smoking indoors is strictly prohibited as it violates our house rules and poses a fire hazard to both<br />
yourself and others.<br />
Drugs/alcohol<br />
Fair Ways strictly prohibits the presence and use of drugs or alcohol within the premises. Failure to comply with this policy may lead to a<br />
reassessment of your placement by the management team.<br />
If you are struggling with substance misuse, we offer support and assistance to help you overcome these challenges. We can help you access<br />
intervention services or simply provide a listening ear whenever you need someone to talk to.<br />
Racism<br />
Racism has no place within our home. We are committed to fostering an environment where every individual feels valued, respected, and free from<br />
discrimination.<br />
Inappropriate sexualised behaviours<br />
We are dedicated to upholding a zero-tolerance approach towards any kind of inappropriate sexual conduct. This encompasses un<strong>welcome</strong><br />
advances, remarks, gestures, or behaviors that may cause discomfort, objectification, or violation to others.<br />
Bullying<br />
Every individual deserves to be treated with respect, kindness, and empathy. Bullying, in any form, is strictly prohibited within our home. We are<br />
committed to maintaining a zero-tolerance policy towards bullying to ensure the well-being and happiness of all our young people.<br />
Sexism<br />
Sexism has no place within our home. We firmly believe in promoting gender equality and dismantling discriminatory practices. We recognize the<br />
value and potential of every individual, regardless of their gender or gender identity.
Absent from home<br />
Returning to the home<br />
You have the freedom to come and go, including approved absences. Please return to the home by<br />
10:30 pm for safety. Staff will make welfare calls while you are out to ensure your well-being. If you will<br />
be late, inform us in advance. Adhering to the agreed-upon return time and responding to welfare calls<br />
ensures your safety and well-being.<br />
Missing persons<br />
Your safety is essential to us. If you do not return without contacting us, and it is not an authorized<br />
absence, we may report you as a missing person to the police. If you stay with family or friends,<br />
we will verify your presence for safety. Your well-being is our priority, and we will take necessary<br />
actions to ensure it.<br />
Reporting as a missing person is serious, and we hope to avoid it. We prioritize your safety and<br />
appreciate your understanding.
Useful to know<br />
Compliments/complaints<br />
To express appreciation, you can send an email to compliments@fairways.co or request a compliments form from<br />
staff.<br />
<br />
For complaints, you can email complaints@fairways.co, request a form, or speak to a staff member.<br />
<br />
We value open communication and promptly address concerns or compliments to ensure your safety and wellbeing.<br />
Feel free to share anything you would like to discuss or raise.<br />
Confidentiality<br />
Respecting confidentiality is a priority in our home. Talk to your assigned key worker to understand how and<br />
when confidential information may be shared with staff and professionals involved in your care. Keep private<br />
information to yourself and respect others' privacy.<br />
Criminal proceedings<br />
We aim to reduce criminal involvement in our community through a collective approach. Instances of criminal<br />
activity are taken seriously and continuously assessed. We maintain a positive relationship with the local police,<br />
including regular conversations with residents and staff through Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs).
Key contacts<br />
Fair Ways 0<strong>23</strong>80 <strong>23</strong>0 400<br />
Childrens<br />
commissioner<br />
0800 528 0731<br />
Ofsted 0300 1<strong>23</strong> 1<strong>23</strong>1<br />
ChildLine 0800 11 11<br />
Voice 0808 800 5792<br />
(Advocacy<br />
helpline)<br />
Talk to Frank 0300 1<strong>23</strong> 6600 Drug helpline<br />
SHOUT Text 85258<br />
Help with<br />
mental health<br />
Coram Voice 0808 800 5792<br />
(Advocacy<br />
helpline)<br />
THE MIX 0808 808 4994<br />
Help with<br />
multiple<br />
concerns
Questions<br />
We highly encourage you to reach out if you have any inquiries or<br />
concerns.<br />
<br />
Our dedicated team is committed to providing thorough responses to your<br />
questions. Please don't hesitate to share any queries or uncertainties you<br />
may have, as we are here to assist you to the best of our abilities.
We look forward<br />
to meeting you!<br />
www.fairways.co