Referrals
Our service is designed for individuals who have faced significant challenges, such as trauma, abuse, neglect, family breakdown, or loss.
Our accommodation offers a structured and supportive setting that helps support young people in the transition from semi-independent living and full independence in adulthood.
Referrals
Admission Criteria of Supporting Independence Outreach Services Ltd
At Supporting Independence Outreach Services Ltd, we provide supported housing for young adults and Unaccompanied Asylum-Seeking Children (UASC) aged 18 to 25, referred by local authorities. Our service is designed for individuals who have faced significant challenges, such as trauma, abuse, neglect, family breakdown, or loss.
Our accommodation offers a structured and supportive setting that helps support young people in the transition from semi-independent living and full independence in adulthood. We recognise that the transition between these stages can be particularly difficult, and with the right guidance and encouragement, young people can develop the skills and confidence they need to move forward successfully.
How Placements Work
Before a placement is confirmed, we carry out a thorough referral and risk assessment process to ensure that the service is suitable for the young person's needs.
As part of this process:
The young person, along with their social worker or designated professional, is invited to attend a pre-placement meeting with our management team.
This meeting allows the young person to visit the accommodation, meet our staff, and ask any questions they may have, helping them to feel informed and confident about the support they will receive.
We are committed to empowering young people with the tools and support they need to achieve lasting independence and stability.
Referral and Admission Process
At Supporting Independence Outreach Services Ltd, we implement a thorough and structured referral process to ensure that each placement is suitable not only for the incoming young person but also for those already residing in the service where applicable.
As part of our assessment and matching process, we require the referring authority to provide:
- A current referral form
- An up-to-date risk assessment
- The young person's pathway plan
These documents help us gain a clear understanding of the young person's history, behaviours, and individual support needs.
In addition, we share our Locality Risk Assessment with the placing authority to help them determine whether the proposed placement environment is appropriate and able to safely meet the young person's needs.
We aim to respond to all referrals within 24 hours, ensuring timely decision-making and clear communication with all involved professionals.
- Provide safe places where young people are protected from harm and where their individual needs are met
- Offer stability and consistency
- Enable continuous access to local services including education and healthcare
- Facilitate the development of strong relationships within the local community
- Promote positive self-esteem and protect against stigma
- Supporting young people to access opportunities
- Support our young people by working towards an independence program aligned with their specific support plan and their aspirations
Referrals
Risk Assessment and Matching
Before a placement can commence:
- A comprehensive risk assessment must be completed
- The assessment must consider how well the new young person matches with others already in placement, in terms of risk, compatibility, and support needs where applicable
- Staff, in partnership with the manager, must ensure the safety and wellbeing of all young people
Once in placement, risk assessments are reviewed regularly, and updated as needed, to reflect any changes in circumstances or needs
Our priority is to ensure that every placement is safe, appropriate, and supportive, creating the best possible outcomes for all young people involved
Referrals
Emergency Admissions
Although planned placements are always preferred due to their ability to ease the transition and reduce anxiety for young people, supporting Independence understands that emergency situations do arise and immediate accommodation is needed.
In these cases, we work in close collaboration with the referring local authority to gather as much relevant information as possible regarding the young person's background, support needs, and any known risks. This information is reviewed by the registered service manager to determine whether we can safely and appropriately accept the young person into our service.
If a placement is approved and the financial arrangements have been agreed upon in writing, the young person will be admitted at the earliest opportunity, providing a suitable placement is vacant.
On Arrival
Due to the unplanned nature of emergency placements, a pre-admission visit is not possible. Therefore, upon arrival:
- The young person will be given a tour of the accommodation
- They will be introduced to staff on duty and any other residents currently residing at placement
- Staff will clearly explain emergency procedures, including fire evacuation routes and assembly points
- Initial Assessment and Support
- Key personal and background details will be gathered as early as possible
- A risk assessment will be completed within 7 days of the young person's arrival
- The placement agreement will be finalised on the day of admission where possible, and no later than 48 hours after entry
- A visit from the young person's social worker or personal advisor should take place within the first week of placement
Supporting Independence is committed to ensuring that every young person feels welcomed, safe, and supported - no matter the circumstances of their arrival.
Referrals
Would you like to discuss a referral?
If you would like to discuss potential referrals, please contact generalenquiries@sioservices.co.uk
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