August Across Our Homes

Between them, our homes visited Alton Towers, the Black Country Living Museum, Bristol Aquarium, farm parks and more than one dessert parlour. There were waterslides, crazy golf, trampolining, a four night camping trip and long afternoons on the beach at Brean and Bournemouth. One young person built a den in the woods. Another went camping for the first time, had a lovely time, and has firmly requested a hotel next year.

A trek up a local hill to watch the eclipse was defeated by cloud. The picnic tea saved it.

Young people across our homes have taken real steps forward this summer. One has started her first job. Another has begun volunteering and is teaching customers how to make coffee. One passed her Level 2 Functional Skills in English and sits her maths exam in October. Another starts school in September with her first day outfit already chosen and her sights set on becoming a paramedic.

One home spent August on the garden. Young people painted the furniture and the fence, added solar lights, built a relaxation area and planted vegetables that have been turning up at dinner, the ones the rabbits left anyway. Another softened its main office and added to the playroom, so the space feels more like a home and less like an office.

We welcomed new colleagues this month, including a Deputy Manager and a Senior Therapeutic Care Worker. Staff have completed PRICE, fire and health and safety training alongside PACE work with our psychologists. One Therapeutic Care Worker marked his first year with us, and one of our Registered Managers reached twelve years across the homes.

One of our homes had a quality assurance visit from a placing authority in August and came away with a strong report. The inspector found substantial evidence that young people are happy, settled and benefiting from experiences that improve their wellbeing, and noted that they spoke warmly about their home, the staff and the opportunities open to them. A social worker who visited separately raised no concerns and described communication as excellent.

A good month. September brings a new term, a maths exam and whatever the rabbits leave behind.

 Want the detail? Every home has its own page with the full month.

Alison House

Chasewater House

The Lawns