SL Statement Of Purpose FINAL June 23

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Contents
Fair Ways Values ........................................................................................................................ 3
Supported Living purpose, ethos, core aims & function. .......................................................... 4
Accommodation ......................................................................................................................... 5
Services ...................................................................................................................................... 7
Providers Address ...................................................................................................................... 9
Staffing Arrangements ............................................................................................................... 9
The young person’s rights and views. ...................................................................................... 10
Positive Outcomes ................................................................................................................... 11
Protection and promotion of mental and physical health ...................................................... 15
Equality and Diversity .............................................................................................................. 18
Complaints/Compliments ........................................................................................................ 19
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Fair Ways Values
Our Mission
Making a difference through passionate care, support, and education.
Our Values
As a charity, we measure our wealth by making a difference, not by making a profit.
By creating a culture that values every individual, we can harness and develop their potential so that they may
achieve great things.
1. Make a difference.
2. Never give up.
3. Value every individual.
4. Listen to each other, develop each other, and reach our potential.
5. Quality and passion in what we do.
Our Culture
We want Fair Ways to be an enjoyable, exciting, and welcoming place where:
• Professional: We do what we say we will do when we said we would do it.
• Accepting: We are inclusive, and open-minded and treat each other with respect.
• Reflective: We focus on learning, not blaming.
• Transparent: We are open, honest, and have integrity.
We fully expect everyone to play their P.A.R.T. in creating the culture our employees and young people deserve.
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Supported Living purpose, ethos, core aims & function.
Purpose:
At Fair Ways Supported Living, our goal is to create a welcoming, inclusive, and secure environment that offers
appropriate staffing levels to assist our young people in acquiring the practical and emotional skills necessary for
independent living. We believe in fostering positive relationships and secure attachments to encourage active
engagement within the community. Throughout this process, we prioritize the involvement of young people in
decision-making regarding their support while ensuring their privacy and dignity are respected. Ultimately, our aim is
to enhance the prospects of young individuals accessing independent accommodation, promoting positive future
outcomes.
While we strive to provide stability, consistency, and acceptance, it is essential to emphasize young people’s
responsibility for themselves. Our staff members provide a safe and secure environment whilst offering support, and
guidance. The team also document relevant information and provide necessary reports, rather than giving orders or
instructions.
Ethos:
Young people who access Fair Ways Supported Living services are likely to have experienced disrupted adolescence
and be lacking the independence, and social and emotional coping skills necessary for a productive start to adulthood.
We are aware that some young people find the transition to adulthood a very challenging time and can leave the care
system unprepared and can be unable or unwilling to engage in the support offered to them. We acknowledge that
this is a very daunting time for young people; when the average age for young people leaving home for the first time
is in their late twenties there is an expectation of accelerated adulthood for the most vulnerable young people. The
expectation for them to be prepared and ready to be fully independent at age 18 can often be unfulfilled.
Young people who have poor internal control mechanisms are likely to feel out of control of their own pathway and
feel that their fate (future) is to be determined by external forces. Young people struggle to understand that they
have a choice to change their situation.
We believe that by working with young people to develop a greater belief and understanding of their relationship
with the world in which they live we are able to develop their internal loci of control and increase their ability to
engage in pro-social interactions with society and their local community. The home promotes and supports Family
and social contacts as these relationships are often recognised as part of the therapeutic process.
Partnership working is at the forefront of our values to promote positive outcomes so that every effort is made to
effectively engage and work the young people to achieve positive outcomes. Fair Ways seek to work with all
professionals of the wider system to assist in meeting the needs and safety of young people.
Core aims & function:
The core aims and function of our Supported Living service are focused on promoting independence and providing a
safe, nurturing, and supportive environment for young people who lack a stable family or home.
Our primary goal is to help them develop the necessary skills, confidence, and independence for a successful
transition into adulthood.
Child-centric support is at the heart of our services. We prioritize the well-being, development, and individual needs
of each child under our care. Our approach revolves around creating a nurturing and empowering environment that
encourages their growth, fosters their strengths, and addresses their unique challenges. We strive to involve children
actively in decision-making processes, respecting their autonomy and preferences. By tailoring our support to meet
their specific requirements, we aim to provide a holistic and child-centred approach that promotes their overall
welfare and helps them thrive.
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Accommodation
Fair Ways Supported Living services offers the following category:
‘supported living in a shared or group living situation in premises used to accommodate only looked after children(6)
or care leavers(7);’
The Characteristics
Fair Ways offers 20 beds across 4 homes to young people who are under the care/responsibility of the local
authority. Our service focuses on providing accommodation to individuals aged 16-25, of any gender and ethnicity.
At Fair Ways, all young people are carefully matched to ensure that the individual needs of the young people can be
best met through the appropriate level of skill and experience.
Fair Ways have a designated Placements team who works collaboratively with management to identify the best
possible match for both the young people and the identified home. Potential referrals will be carefully assessed by
the management team to ensure that:
1. The home can effectively meet young people’s needs.
2. The needs fall within the home’s Statement of Purpose.
3. Effective placement planning and risk assessments can be achieved upon assessment of the needs and risks
to ensure the safety of the home and matching risks.
Placements cannot be considered for:
• Individuals who require continuous psychiatric supervision.
• Individuals who pose a serious physical threat to themselves or others.
• Individuals who have profound learning disabilities or physical disabilities
• Individuals who cannot safely manage and store medication independently.
• Individuals that pose current or concerning arson risks/behaviours.
• Individuals that are subject to DOLS.
• Individuals that are unable to have unsupervised time.
• Individuals that require personal care.
All young people will begin placement on an assessment period which will be discussed and explained prior to a
placement being offered. The assessment length will be determined by the referral information including presenting
and historic risk levels. An assessment period is usually within but not conclusive of the 4-6 weeks ‘timeframe. Upon
a formal offer being made by Fair Ways, the following documents are required to be sent to the home upon
admission.
• T&C signed and returned
• Admission information document
• Referral
• Risk assessment
• Care plan
• Life Chronology
• Medical information (LAC medical health assessment)
• Legal information
• Education assessments
• Social worker name
• IRO name
• Any other key names and addresses
Young people are central to the placement process and engaging them effectively is crucial to the successful
outcome of all placements. We will use our skills and experience to ensure that the young people’s views are
listened to and respected through consent forms, the admission document, and the initial admission information.
Where possible we will always look to implement a transition into the home and where possible the young people
should be visited in their current placement, provided with the opportunity to visit the home, and be given the
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opportunity to be a part of the decision-making process about the possible move however due to the nature of our
service we also consider accommodating emergency placements. We can provide the young people with our
welcome guide so that they have as much information on the home and service as possible upon request.
If our young people become unsuitable for the service due to their level of risk, the service will organise a
professional meeting to identify if the home can continue to meet the needs, manage the risk and safeguard other
young people placed. If it is concluded that we cannot any longer keep this young person safe or the needs of the
home, then we issue 28 days’ notice of placement termination to the local authority or care leavers team. We will
then look to hold a discussion with the young person to advise and implement a safe transition plan. If the risks are
assessed as significantly unsafe, the service management team will assess the suitability of the placement. In cases
where safety is compromised, the termination of the placement may occur earlier than the expected 28-day period.
The Facilities - Description of the homes
Type: All properties are unmarked/unbranded to blend in with society to prevent the feeling of being different and
promote ‘normal’ living arrangements.
Hider Home is a low-needs Supported Living home situated in the heart of a residential neighbourhood in Woolston,
Southampton. It has easy access to the railway station and bus routes, making easy access to Southampton’s central
and outside areas such as Portsmouth. The home is set up to support 5 young people. The home is supported with
daily input from a small team of staff that provides identified hours of support. Sleep in staff enables the home to
have support in the case of an emergency every evening.
Cedar Home is a high-needs supportive living home situated in Portswood, Southampton. It is within walking
distance from Portswood high street and a short distance from Southampton city centre, making it easy to access
railway and bus station routes. The home is structured over 2 levels and aims to provide a homely, therapeutic
environment to support 5 young people aged between 16-25 years who have complex needs. We provide higher
levels of support in this home to ensure that we meet the high needs of the young people.
Stamshaw Home is a high-needs supportive living home situated in Stamshaw, Portsmouth. The home is within
walking distance from a local precinct and has access to the local railway and bus station routes. Stamshaw can
accommodate up to 6 young people aged between 16-25 years of age who display high complex needs. This home is
3 individual terraced houses structured over three floors, with each home accommodating two young people. We
provide higher levels of support in this home to ensure that we meet the high needs of the young people.
Hillside Home is a high-needs supportive living home situated in Slade, Bath. The home has access to local
supermarkets and is easily accessible to the bus and train station which provides a direct route into Bath city centre.
Hillside can accommodate up to 4 young people who display high complex needs and are looked after young people
or care leavers. The home is a converted bungalow structured over three floors. We provide higher levels of support
in this home.
Size: All properties are of the typical size of a family home offering homes that are 2-7 bedrooms with adequate size
communal areas.
Location: The homes are located in both the South and West of England. The homes are situated in locations that
are appropriately situated in local areas so that young people can access:
• Transport connections (train stations, bus stops)
• Food access (Supermarkets)
• Health requirements (Doctor surgery, opticians, dentist)
• Education (Local college)
• Employment opportunities
Amenities: All homes offer:
• Wi-Fi
• Smart Televisions in both communal and personal bedroom areas
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• Heating
• Laundry facilities
• Communal kitchen for preparation of food
• Communal bathroom
Privacy: All young people have their own bedroom space which is private to them. Their bedrooms provide sufficient
space to accommodate a reasonable number of possessions, are equipped to meet the individual’s needs, and has
access to Internet connectivity via Wi-Fi. Communal areas are provided (kitchen, lounge area, garden etc.) In the
event that a young person is studying from home, then adequate furniture (desk) would be purchased and set up in
an appropriate area of the home.
Security: All homes are fitted with adequate security devices to allow all young people to feel safe and secure in
their home, these include locked devices to doors, windows, and a lockable door to their own bedroom space.
Bathrooms also have lockable devices for privacy.
Homes also offer CCTV to monitor the front and rear of the properties to monitor surveillance and security of the
property and the individuals within. CCTV acquires consent to be understood and signed by the placing authority and
the young people to comply with the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012 and the Surveillance Camera Code of Conduct
(Home Office 2013)
All properties are subject to a location risk assessment.
Atmosphere: All homes offer a peaceful and quiet atmosphere with the intention of providing a safe and secure
environment. The homes are decorated in a way that allows the young people to call them ‘home’, young people are
consulted when the homes are decorated to gain their thoughts/ideas which are then considered prior to
decoration.
Services
Fair Ways Supported Living is currently an unregulated service that provides accommodation to young people of any
gender aged between 16-25 years of age. *The service is in the process of preparing for regulation under OFSTED*
The services offered at Fair Ways Supported Accommodation include:
Hours-based model of support/care. We take pride in delivering a personalized and flexible support system based
on an hourly model, tailored to meet the specific needs of each young person. To reinforce this approach, we have
developed a variety of services that offer a gradual reduction in support, and we have integrated an outcome star
tool. This tool serves the dual purpose of supporting the individuals and measuring their progress as we assess their
development.
The aim is to monitor and promote the decrease of support hours provided to each individual as the placement
progresses to develop independence and prepare their skills and confidence to be able to live independently.
Staying Close
At 18 years of age, many young people face a cliff edge of leaving supported care, to little or no support. They are
often forced to move a great distance from their family and social networks. Their established professional
relationships which are key supports for the young people, are often completely severed. Young people will have no
clear plan for accommodation, and this may lead to a spiral of negative behaviours with poor outcomes.
Fair Ways Staying Close provides support for young people who present with high levels of complex needs and
vulnerabilities. Our support emphasises the importance of key relationships in a young person’s life and a
commitment to long-term planning. Our Staying Close model extends these principles for young people with
complex needs leaving our care, to begin to prepare them for adulthood and reduce the ‘cliff edge’ they would
otherwise experience.
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Staying Close provides ongoing support while young people transition first into Supported Living from residential
care, and then on into independence. When the young people we support move on into semi-independence and
independence, support can then take place in the form of outreach to maintain healthy relationships and promote
further positive outcomes.
The desired outcomes of Fair Ways Staying Close is for all young people to have Sustained relationships with
consistent key professionals, A reduction in anxiety regarding their long-term care planning and safe, secure, and
sustained accommodation post-18. Staying Close is designed to prove that by providing support to young people
past the age of 18, their chances in life are much improved. Fair Ways are invested in the journey for all young
people and are committed to this opportunity to shape a better future for all young people.
“The staff at Fair Ways are all I have, I never had this before. I don’t want to leave and have no one outside of here. I
am glad I get to keep those important people in my life. Staying close should be an option for all care leavers.”
- A care leaver of Fair Ways (2022)
Further information can be provided upon request.
Clinical services (Fair Ways HUB)
We are invested in every individual and believe that we need to enhance and maximize everyone’s full potential
through education, vocation, and support offered by highly skilled and specialised staff to incorporate our ‘team
around the relationship’ approach. All young people will have access to the Fair Ways Hub.
The Hub is a multi-disciplinary therapeutic service central to all other Fair Ways services. Its aim is to ensure young
people’s emotional & social needs are identified through effective screening and clinical assessment. The Hub team,
work with other Fair Ways staff teams through supervision and training to ensure the most appropriate support and
evidence-based interventions are embedded to help meet the young people’s needs. The Hub will deliver specific,
time-limited evidence-based interventions where appropriate following a comprehensive clinical assessment and will
also work with local mainstream and specialist services including wider professional networks to ensure seamless
pathways for care and treatment and to help identify appropriate thresholds between The Hub and Community
CAMHS.
The Hub does not act as an emergency service and Fair Ways employees are supported and educated on appropriate
pathways in the case of an emergency.
Education lead
Fair Ways recognise that individuals who access Supported Living may have experienced, disrupted education, and
can often struggle to reintegrate into this environment. Fair Ways also have access to an education lead who
oversees education and employment for all young people in the service. The Education lead works alongside the the
young people to maximise their employment and educational opportunities to achieve their goals and future
aspirations whilst understanding their specific needs.
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“Me being in college, me going to my apprenticeship….if she (Fair Ways Education lead) wasn’t there guiding me
through it and being there for me to talk to…. I don’t think I would have got as far as I am now. She helped me
through my struggles and showed me a way.”
- Care leaver of Fair Ways 2021.
Fair Ways Outdoor Adventures
Fair Ways Outdoor Adventures provides a wide range of innovative outdoor education services within Fair Ways. The
services currently include Activity Camps, The Duke of Edinburgh's Award Expeditions, Teambuilding, and
Adventurous Activity days.
The team prides itself on providing a high-quality bespoke outdoor education solution. To help meet this aim they
use modern equipment and experienced activity instructors.
“I struggle to put into words how I found the experience, but I did really enjoy it and would love to go again.”
- Young person, 2023
Providers Address
Staffing Arrangements
The work address for all individuals:
Fair Ways Head Office:
Lakeside
Ground Floor, Building 1000
Western Road
Portsmouth
Hampshire
PO6 3EZ
Email: hello@fairways.co
Website: www.fairways.co
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A general summary of common staffing arrangements in our homes:
1. Operations Manager/Deputy Manager: The management team oversees the overall operation of the
Supported Living homes. They are responsible for ensuring that the facility meets all regulatory standards,
managing staff, coordinating programs and activities, and maintaining communication with
parents/guardians and the professional network.
2. Support Staff: Support staff members play a crucial role in supporting the operations of the homes, and
contribute to the smooth functioning of the facility and maintaining a clean and safe environment. Support
staff are our frontline workers who work directly with our young people providing support during the day
and offering sleep-in shifts throughout the night.
3. Qualified Professionals: Depending on the specific needs of the young people, Supported Living has access to
clinically qualified professionals whom we can access, for any specific work, in an attempt to meet young
people’s needs.
4. On-call Staff: In case of emergencies or unforeseen situations, on-call staff members can be contacted
outside of regular working hours. These individuals are available to provide immediate assistance or support
if required.
Whilst the Supported Living service is a predominantly female lead team, we recognize the importance of being able
to provide diverse support and therefore aim to provide male support via the Hub, internal reactions to promote
positive change, participation in members, and identifying external community services to ensure diversity.
A copy of the department’s workforce development plan is available upon request.
The young person’s rights and views.
The young person is emphasized as a fundamental principle that guides the approach of the organization. This
means creating opportunities for young people to express their views and opinions and ensuring that their voices are
heard and valued.
Some of the ways in which we promote the young person's voice include:
1. Encouraging participation: Providing opportunities for young people to participate in decision-making
processes, such as through consultation on any changes proposed to their pathway plan, key-work sessions,
and house meetings which include all members of the household.
2. Empowering young people: Supporting young people to develop the skills and confidence they need to
express their views and ideas effectively and to participate in meaningful ways.
3. Listening actively: Actively listening to young people's perspectives and experiences, valuing their
contributions, and incorporating their feedback into the organization's policies, practices, and services.
4. Creating a culture of inclusivity: Promoting a culture that values diversity and inclusivity, where all young
people feel welcome and respected, regardless of their background, identity, or experiences.
By prioritizing the young person's voice, Fair Ways can demonstrate its commitment to promoting youth
participation, empowerment, and inclusion. This can help to build trust and credibility with young people, fostering
positive relationships, and supporting positive outcomes for our young people.
Arrangements in place to ensure a child is fully aware of their entitlements.
To ensure that a young person in Supported Living is fully aware of their entitlements throughout the duration of
their placement, The following arrangements are in place:
1. Welcome Guide: When a young person enters our home, they are provided with a comprehensive welcome
guide. This guide includes information about their rights, entitlements and the services available to them.
It also contains details about their accommodation, key staff contacts, expectations and relevant policies and
procedures.
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2. Assigned Key Worker: Each young person in our homes should have an assigned key worker who acts as
their main point of contact and advocate. The key worker is responsible for building a trusting relationship
with the young person, explaining their entitlements, and regularly updating them on any changes or
developments.
3. Outcome star (Tailored planning): An Outcome star is created for each young person, outlining their specific
needs, goals, and entitlements. The plan is regularly reviewed and updated with the young person’s input,
ensuring that they are aware of their entitlements and the progress made towards achieving their goals.
4. Regular house Meetings: These meetings provide an opportunity to discuss the young people’s
entitlements, address any concerns or issues, and ensure that the child's voice is heard, and their rights are
respected in a group setting. It also provides the young person with a forum to share suggestions for change.
5. Advocacy Services: All young people are supported to seek advocacy services with the support and guidance
of the young person’s local authority.
6. Regular Communication: Open and transparent communication channels are exercised daily between the
young person and staff members. This includes regular check-ins, notice boards with important updates and
updates from staff post any meetings with professionals.
7. Collaboration with External Agencies: Fair Ways collaborate with relevant external agencies, such as local
authorities, advocacy organizations, and legal services, to ensure that the young person’s entitlements are
well-understood and upheld. These agencies can provide additional support and guidance to the young
person when needed.
8. Consent forms: Fair Ways aim to give young people the best possible care. To do this we must keep records
about all of the individuals who reside in our care. This information is only shared with the relevant
professionals involved in their care. Young people and /or their guardians will be provided with a Consent to
Share Information Form to read and sign at the beginning of their placement with Fair Ways that contain
more details. When asking for consent Fair Ways will ensure that the individual can refuse to consent
without detriment and make it easy for individuals to withdraw their consent at any time and publicise how
to do so.
9. Compliments and Complaints: all young people are provided with a compliments and complaints leaflet
during the admissions process to ensure they have the necessary contact details to raise concerns.
Positive Outcomes
Model of practice
The service does not use any form of physical intervention/restraint to manage risk-taking or violent/aggressive
behaviours. There are clear risk responses to support and guide employees to de-escalate and promote a reduction
in risks and behaviours. These are tailored to the individual young person’s needs.
Fair Ways conducted a review of its behaviour support model, finding that Team Teach did not align well with the
therapeutic strategies implemented throughout the company. Our goal was to minimize the use of physical
intervention while maximizing knowledge, thoughtfulness, and therapeutic intent. In response, they developed the
RiiSE (Relationship Inspired Ideas for Supportive Environments) program. This program is rooted in theories of
trauma, attachment, restraint reduction, and creating a therapeutic culture, providing staff with tools and practical
examples to build and sustain relationships while supporting individuals.
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The core values of RiiSE include supporting human rights, aiming for non-violence, thoughtful action, emotional
support, recognizing individual differences, focusing on connection, reflecting on the past and future, and
considering the perspective of others.
Our RiiSE course is designed to create a culture where everyone supporting the people in our care does so in a
similar way that is individualised for that person; creating consistency, predictability, and reliably to a person who
may have most often experienced chaos in their everyday lives. Individualised de-escalation techniques, reflective
practice, therapeutic parenting, understanding the stages of an incident, self-care and building resilience are all parts
of the course that add to the staff member’s knowledge and skills to be able to reduce the need for physical
intervention.
The service is also trained in a Non-Violent Resistance Model of Care and Risk Management practice. Non-Violent
Resistance (NVR) is a psychological approach to overcoming destructive, aggressive, controlling, and risk-taking
behaviour. NVR's principles are based on the socio-political practice of nonviolent resistance (or nonviolent action),
which refers to achieving goals through nonviolent methods, such as increased carer presence, resisting behaviours
utilising supporters, reconciliation gestures, announcements, and sit-ins.
We recognise the need for ongoing staff development in their capacity to provide young people with therapeutic
care. We create the space whereby such learning is at its most effective. The staff team is provided with clinical
group supervision as well as individual reflective practice sessions. In these safe spaces, staff can reflect on their own
practice, and emotional responses to difficult situations, and look in-depth into the communicative function of
behaviour, including their own. These sessions prevent and counteract the effects of secondary trauma and block
care.
Outcomes
Creating a nurturing and supportive environment is crucial for promoting positive outcomes among the young
people under our care. To achieve this, we can employ various strategies:
Cultivate positive relationships: Building strong bonds between young individuals and their caregivers, social
workers, and support staff is fundamental. These positive relationships foster a sense of security and belonging,
which contributes to better overall outcomes.
Foster a culture of education and learning: Encouraging and facilitating access to quality education and learning
opportunities is vital for their growth. By promoting skill development, knowledge acquisition, and self-esteem
building, we enhance their chances of success in education and future employment. Our dedicated education officer
plays a crucial role in offering weekly support, including assistance with applications, preparation, and
encouragement, to bolster their confidence and self-esteem towards their educational and employment goals.
Support physical and mental well-being: Prioritizing the physical and mental health of young people in care is pivotal.
Providing access to healthcare services, promoting regular exercise, and offering activities that enhance well-being
all contribute to positive outcomes.
Nurture independence: Fostering independence empowers young individuals to develop essential skills and selfassurance
needed for adulthood. By granting them decision-making opportunities and encouraging responsibility for
their own lives, we enable their growth towards self-sufficiency.
Encourage involvement in extracurricular activities: Motivating young people to participate in extracurricular
pursuits like sports, music, and art helps nurture their interests and passions. Engaging in such activities also
facilitates socialization and the formation of friendships.
Provide support during transitions: Transitions, such as moving between foster homes or leaving care, can be
challenging for young individuals. Offering ongoing support and guidance during these periods is crucial for their
successful adaptation and adjustment.
By implementing these strategies, we can actively contribute to the positive development of young people in our
care. They will gain the skills, knowledge, and confidence necessary to thrive and succeed in their future endeavours.
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Development of needs
The Outcome Star is a tool used in Fair Ways Supported Living service to measure and track progress towards
achieving specific outcomes for individuals. It is a visual tool that is designed to be used collaboratively between the
service provider and the individual receiving support.
All versions of the Outcomes Star consist of several scales arranged in the shape of a star. The behaviour and
attitudes expected at each point on each scale is clearly defined in each version of the tool and the scales are
constructed around a model of change which defines the end goal and steps along the way. The model of change is
developed independently for each version of the Star, though some versions share the same model where the client
group faces similar issues. (MacKeith, 2011).
The Outcome Star has been shown to be an effective tool for promoting person-centred support, goal setting, and
tracking progress toward achieving positive outcomes for individuals within our setting.
The young person’s star has been designed for young people moving to independent living. There are 8 scales
covered which are detailed below:
• Accommodation- This scale is about where the young person is living now and how well they are managing,
so that their accommodation is stable, and they are not risking eviction. This includes sharing with other
people and complying with their tenancy agreement or other terms of their accommodation, for instance,
taking responsibility for visitors. It is also about the steps they are taking to live more independently.
• Work and Learning- This scale is about how the young person spends their time during the week and their
aspirations for the future, whether they are in training or education, in work, or taking steps towards a
working future that is meaningful to them.
• People and Support- This scale is about the young person feeling connected and supported and having
people in their life – friends, family, or others – who help them to make positive choices and move in the
direction they want. Early on, support may come from one or more workers, but towards the top of the
scale, people outside of the service provide them with the support network that we all need in life.
• Health- This scale is about how well the young person looks after their health; not about how good their
health is now. It includes looking after their health by eating enough healthy food, taking exercise, and trying
to sleep well. It is also about going to the doctor and dentist as needed, taking prescribed medication,
managing any health conditions they have, and protecting themselves from sexually transmitted infections
(STIs).
• How you Feel- This scale is about how the young person feels most of the time and how they manage any
difficult emotions and/or mental health issues, whether diagnosed or not. There is space here to talk about
whatever is most relevant to them now, whether that is a lack of self-esteem, anxiety, feeling very up and
down without knowing why, issues around identity, or any other aspect of how they feel.
• Choices and Behaviour- This scale is about whether the young person uses drugs, gets into problems
because of drinking too much, or gets into trouble with the police through fights or other anti-social
behaviour or offending. There is also space here to talk about any other ways in which the young person
might be putting themselves or others at risk through their choices and behaviour and how they want to
change this.
• Money and Rent- This scale is about how young people manage the money they have and whether they
have enough money to cover the basics each week. It includes paying rent regularly and managing any other
debts or regular costs. It is also about being able to plan their finances and use banks and any other services
they need.
• Practical Life Skills- This scale is about all the skills the young person needs to live independently and look
after themselves well, including shopping, cooking, cleaning, doing laundry, and other practical tasks. If they
are confident with some tasks but not others, a note of what they do well will be made and the scale will be
selected upon the areas that need work.
The young people’s involvement in the process of measuring their progress is paramount, therefore we encourage
and promote the involvement of all young people when implementing their outcome star targets. The support plan
incorporates the young person’s assessment outcomes, pathway plan from the Local Authority, and their own
personal views to enable positive change and increase independence. This is then reviewed quarterly between the
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young person and their identified key worker so that areas of progress can be achieved and areas for development
can be outlined.
The process of completing the Outcome Star is one that aims to produce a non-biased outcome, therefore
individuals supporting young people complete these are required to complete a copy adding their views on the
progress made in number form. Their views are then compared with scores provided by the young people. The
process is not only aimed to track progress for professionals but for young people to get an understanding of how
others view them. Noticeable trust and relationship building has been observed through this process, and young
people have developed a sense of self-worth.
Our service recognises the importance of young people having access to a key person who can be an important role
model for them and whom they have built a positive trusting relationship with to ensure their needs are met. Each
young person within the homes is allocated a named key worker. These workers seek to develop and sustain a
strong, meaningful positive relationship with the young person through effective and clear communication,
compassion, patience, consistency, and resilience.
The Keyworkers monitor issues arising in all aspects of the person’s life - emotional, behavioural, social, educational,
and health. They report to the House Manager and the young person’s professional network. The key workers also
manage the individual’s records and contribute to Placement Plans, Risk Assessments, and Outcome Support Plans.
They undertake individual work with their young person which is planned, supervised, and monitored by the line
manager.
Life Skills
Within our organisation, we offer ASDAN courses that serve as valuable tools for enhancing engagement and
motivation. These courses are designed to foster the development of new skills, build confidence, and encourage
active participation through various interactive methods. Young people are engaged through activities such as
sharing ideas, participating in role-play, engaging in debates, problem-solving, playing games, and planning activities.
By incorporating these dynamic approaches, we create a stimulating learning environment that promotes skill
acquisition, collaboration, and personal growth among each young person.
We recognise the importance of adopting a learner-centred approach to teaching life skills. We believe in avoiding
assumptions about prior knowledge and treating each life skill as if the individual is encountering it for the first time..
Our teaching methodology involves a three-step process: teach, model, and provide practice opportunities. We
begin by clearly explaining the skill and its associated steps, providing thorough instruction. Next, we demonstrate
the skill ourselves, serving as a model for correct execution. Finally, we empower the young person to practice the
skill independently, offering guidance and support whenever necessary. We recognize and reinforce their efforts,
acknowledging their progress and providing positive feedback.
We emphasize the importance of consistent reinforcement. We understand that mastering life skills often requires
repeated practice over time. We encourage young people to regularly practice the skill and offer reinforcement and
support as needed. Through repetition and consistent reinforcement, we help solidify the skill within their routine.
We acknowledge that learning life skills can be a gradual process for some individuals. We exercise patience,
recognizing their individual needs and challenges.
Promoting/supporting Education & Employment
To promote the involvement and progress of young people in education, training, or employment, several
arrangements are in place. These arrangements aim to provide support, guidance, and resources to help young
people achieve their educational and career goals. The following practices are provided:
1. Career Guidance and Counselling: Career guidance services are offered to young people to help them
explore their interests, strengths, and career options. An education lead with a background in education
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provides information, advice, and guidance on educational pathways, vocational training, and employment
opportunities. They assist young people in making informed decisions about their educational and career
choices as well as assist with education/employment applications, interview preparation and guidance on
preparation on the subject matter.
2. Collaboration with Educational Services: Collaboration with colleges, universities, and training providers is
essential to support young people in their educational pursuits. These partnerships ensure that young
people have access to quality education or training programs aligned with their interests and career goals.
Regular communication and coordination with educators and support staff help monitor progress and
provide necessary support. To list a few agencies:
1. Princes’s trust
2. Hampshire choices
3. Saints Foundation
3. Ongoing Support and Monitoring: Continuous support and monitoring are provided by all staff to ensure
young people stay engaged in education, training, or employment. Regular check-ins, progress reviews, and
feedback sessions help identify challenges, provide necessary interventions, and celebrate achievements.
Protection and promotion of mental and physical health
Medical Advice
All medical advice will be sought from an appropriate medical professional. Staff should not provide specific health
consultation on conditions to young people unless they are registered health care professionals in a designated
health care role within the company. Health care advice should be sought from GP, Medical Consultant, District
Nurse, NHS 111, Walk-in Centre, Pharmacy, A & E. Health care advice can also be provided by a private registered
health care professionals including podiatry, occupational therapist and physiotherapist.
Admissions and Assessment
Young people with health needs, are identified during the pre-admission assessment. Health care needs of young
people that are not within the regular scope of the service will require a confirmation from Fair Ways weekly
Referrals, Admissions, Discharge and Key Update Meeting (RADKUM) to establish whether needs and risks can be
met within the service.
Every service will plan to promote and support all young people to complete registration with a local GP, Dentist,
and Optician within 72 hours.
Any specific allergies will need to be identified before admission to ensure they can be safely cared for.
Consent is gained from the young person (or individual with Parental Responsibility) to liaise with health care
practitioners on their behalf. Staff are aware that consent can be withdrawn at any time by the individual.
Health Care
Every young person will have a comprehensive health care plan in place to assess and address their primary and
secondary health care needs. These health care plans should encompass an outline of their specific health care
requirements, diagnosis, and the involvement of relevant health professionals responsible for their care.
Additionally, the plan should clearly delineate the responsibilities of the service in meeting their needs, including the
inclusion of any necessary medications. In order to ensure the accuracy and appropriateness of the health care plan,
guidance should be sought from health care professionals. Furthermore, the health care plans should provide clear
instructions on the appropriate actions to be taken in the event of a medical emergency. By implementing these
measures, we can ensure that the healthcare needs of young people are effectively addressed and that appropriate
actions are taken promptly when required.
Fair Ways Services are committed to working collaboratively with healthcare professionals in meeting the health
needs of young people. Staff will be expected to attend multi-agency meetings to ensure healthcare needs are met.
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First Aid
First Aid staff will administer first aid according to the level of training and competence they have received. In
situations where the circumstances exceed their level of training or if there are health complications requiring
advanced interventions, consultation with healthcare professionals should be sought.
To ensure preparedness, First Aid kits are available in each home and are regularly checked and maintained to
ensure their contents are up-to-date and sufficient to meet the needs of all individuals.
In the event of any accidents, documentation is crucial. Accidents will be recorded and reported.
Medication handling
The Supported Living service operates under the policy that it does not hold or administer medication to residents.
Instead, the focus is on empowering residents to self-administer their medications or designate a caregiver for
assistance. Through education, support, and collaboration with healthcare providers, the service strives to ensure
the safe and effective management of medications within the Supported Living home environment.
Residents in the Supported Living home are responsible for managing their own medications, including acquiring,
storing, and administering them in accordance with their prescribed regimens. If residents require assistance with
medication management, they are encouraged to discuss with their designated health professionals (GP) who can
provide the necessary support, ensuring the medications are administered correctly and on time.
The service may offer reminders or notification systems to help residents remember to take their medications on
time, promoting adherence and reducing the risk of missed doses.
The service has established protocols to respond to medication-related emergencies promptly. This includes
contacting emergency services and notifying healthcare providers if necessary, ensuring the safety and well-being of
residents in critical situations.
Recording & safekeeping
This policy outlines the protocols and procedures related to the recording and safekeeping of important documents
and personal belongings within the service in accordance our GDPR policy and privacy notice for young people. The
aim is to ensure the security, privacy, and easy retrieval of residents' records and possessions.
The service upholds strict confidentiality standards, ensuring that the young people's personal information and
records are kept secure and accessible only to authorized personnel via electronic systems that require login, that
require a password to access.
The service maintains organized and comprehensive documentation systems, including individual profiles/files
(digitally), where important records such as medical history, outcome records, and legal documents are recorded
accurately and securely.
Staff members regularly update residents' records, capturing relevant information such as medication changes,
healthcare visits, and any significant events or developments.
Access to the young people’s records and personal belongings is restricted to authorized staff members who require
the information for providing care and support. The relevant and appropriate records on a specific young people is
also shared with the allocated social worker who receives notifications via e-mail so that information is shared in a
timely manner. (The social worker will have access to the system, which will require a login to access)
The service has contingency plans in place to address situations such as natural disasters or emergencies, ensuring
the protection and preservation of residents' records and personal belongings.
Digital records are backed up off-site or stored using reliable cloud-based platforms to prevent data loss or damage
during unforeseen events.
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Safeguarding
Supported Living is committed to the principle that the welfare of young people is paramount (Children Act 1989).
Any suspicion or allegation that an individual has been abused while in Fairway’s care will be dealt with in
accordance with this principle. This means that the company will seek to work with placing authorities and
investigating authorities collaboratively and swiftly to progress investigations.
Any member of staff under suspicion of having abused a child will be immediately suspended while investigations
are carried out.
Support workers who are told of allegations of abuse or have reason to suspect that abuse has taken place must
report details immediately to the home’s designated person. In the absence of the designated person, concerns
must be reported straight away to a line manager, Operational Manager, Head of Services, or to the Designated
Safeguarding lead. There must be no delay in reporting caused by the unavailability of the designated person.
All matters relating to child and adult protection issues, or concerns must be reported as soon as possible to the
Manager who will escalate to the relevant people.
We have a designated safeguarding lead and have well-established procedures in place to respond to complaints
and safeguarding concerns effectively to ensure the welfare of young people is protected.
Fair Ways exercise a weekly Risk and Safeguarding forum that is attended by the Operations Manager and other
members of the senior management team within the organisation, including the designated safeguarding officer
(DSO), Quality Safety and Governance Team (QSGT) and a member of our clinical (HUB) services.
The safeguarding policy can be requested by emailing safeguarding@fairways.co or the management team.
Health and Safety
Every home has a health and safety policy and fire risk management assessment that outlines the general fire
precautions to reduce the risk of fire on the premises and the management of risk. All employees are trained to
manage health and safety and fire risks.
The health and safety policy can be requested by emailing HS@fairways.co.
Substance Misuse and Alcohol
Fair Ways strictly prohibit the presence of alcohol, illicit substances, or drug paraphernalia on any of its premises.
Staff members adopt an educational and non-judgmental approach when providing support to young people in
matters concerning substance misuse and alcohol. Fair Ways collaborate with community drug and alcohol services,
including NHS and FRANK, to ensure comprehensive support for young people. In the event of discovering illicit
substances, Fair Ways will report the findings to the police.
Fair Ways regulated services have the authority to conduct searches of young people’s property, on the premises if
there is suspicion of illicit drugs and/or alcohol. These searches are conducted in adherence to the policies and
procedures specific to each service.
Smoking
Fair Ways offer information on smoking cessation to young people through the NHS or local pharmacy. Smoking is
strictly prohibited within all Fair Ways buildings. Each home undergoes risk assessments to determine designated
smoking areas. Staff members are not allowed to purchase tobacco products for young people.
Sexual Health
Young people seeking advice on contraception and sexually transmitted diseases are directed to local health
services, such as pharmacies or NHS sexual health services. Staff members provide information on support groups
available to young people exploring their sexuality. Fair Ways have a duty to report any concerns regarding the
vulnerability of our young people in a relationship to safeguard children and adults in its care.
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Staff members undergo training in child and adult safeguarding to ensure they are competent in identifying
safeguarding issues and understand the process of reporting them to the Local Authority.
Equality and Diversity
Fair Ways are committed to the principles of equal opportunities in employment and services. Through our inclusive
approach to recruitment, management, and employee forums Fair Ways will strive to ensure that no individual will
be disadvantaged because of protected characteristics.
• Disability
• Gender reassignment
• Marriage and civil partnership
• Pregnancy and maternity
• Race
• Religion or belief
• Sex
• Sexual orientation
Young people are provided opportunities to engage in services, activities, and celebrations which relate to their
individual and/or spiritual beliefs. The young people’s support plans ensure that their religious, cultural, sexual,
heritage and linguistic identities are maintained and promoted which the young people consent to. We also
encourage them to develop interests and hobbies and to take part in activities in the community which help build
their sense of self and self-esteem, such as performing arts clubs attending a local gym which we financially support
and locating local sports team opportunities.
All young people within the service are given the opportunity to earn incentives that are personalised to their needs
and views.
We will seek to explore the young people’s views, feelings and wishes through direct planned and unplanned key
work sessions which is a protected space for them to progress, develop relationships and identify and resolve
problems or concerns. These protected sessions can also be planned to respond to current risks or identified areas of
support that need further guidance.
The young people also have access to weekly community meetings within the home, which are used to consult them
about the operation of the home, to address current issues within their home e.g. peer dynamics, plans for activities,
and behavioural issues which are impacting on other members of the community. This forum provides the
opportunity for them to find their own voice, share their views and feelings, challenge their peers and adult
members of the community, to develop empathy, and to contribute to the development of the home. This forum is
also used to update the community on any pending changes.
We recognise that young people have a right to take positive risks therefore individual risk assessments are
implemented, we also ensure that young people complete a medical consent form and a sharing and collecting
consent form upon admission to the home. They are advised that they have a right to refuse but on the occasion
that this is a risk that puts themselves or others at risk then we reserve the right to share information if it is in the
best interest of them.
There is an open-door policy with no restriction on the liberty of young adults to come and go from home. The staff
team will knock and wait before entering a young person’s personal space. The young people are aware that staff
reserve the right to enter their bedroom without permission if it is assessed that they are at risk to themselves,
others, or the property.
Quality assurance
We exercise several ways of monitoring that the support is consistently appropriate to meet the needs of the young
people. These include:
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• Quarterly inspections completed by Fair Ways Quality, Safety Governance team.
• Internal department Audit cycles within the service.
• Ad hoc visits from senior managers/directors to meet young people and assess the quality of support and
the environment.
• Regular external regulator inspections.
We have such high levels of assurance to enable us to have and promote the young person’s involvement. This keeps
them central to all decisions about their support and the service as a whole. Our aim is to provide the service in a
high-quality environment that enables young people to experience privacy, respect, and dignity.
To promote young people’s independence, self-confidence, and well-being; allowing them to realise their own
potential through person-centred outcomes, and to prepare young adults for the transition to adult services,
Supported Living or to live independently.
Bullying protocol
It is not uncommon that some young people, especially those in group living situations, attempt to use bullying
tactics at some time. Research suggests that young people from dysfunctional or abusive home environments are
more prone to becoming either a target or a bully. Regardless of the reason, bullying has no validity at Fair Ways. We
are proactive in our approach toward bullying and address incidents immediately.
We believe that young people can be helped to develop better ways of behaving, provided that:
• There is a whole-hearted anti-bullying ethos that applies to both staff and young people.
• Everyone knows and understands what bullying is and why people may bully.
• Everyone knows and understands that bullying is unacceptable.
Incidents of bullying are dealt with in a variety of ways, depending on the circumstances of the case and the
characters involved. We are committed to resolving and preventing all forms of bullying and believe that this is
achievable without termination of the placement. Only in extreme cases would we consider placement termination
and when all other prevention and management options have been unsuccessfully explored.
Fair Ways believes that all young people have the right to be treated with dignity and respect.
Complaints/Compliments
We actively encourage feedback to ensure we deliver high-quality support. If standards fall short of our values, we
will take appropriate action. All young people in Supported Living are provided with a copy of the compliments and
complaints procedure which provides guidance and is given to them upon admission into the home. This leaflet also
includes an explanation of the role of an advocate and contact details for independent Advocates who can help
young people make complaints or a complaint on their behalf. We also recognise that those representatives,
relatives, and other significant people who may wish to complain, have access to the same procedure which is
accessible via the Fair Ways website or upon request with the manager of the homes.
In order to ensure the integrity of the complaints procedure Fair Ways will ensure:
• That the service user has private access to a member of staff if requested.
• Those representatives, relatives, and other significant people have access to staff if requested.
• That the young people have regular opportunities to discuss aspects of their placement and any issues
arising with other residents or their individual support.
• That the young people have immediate and private access to their representatives in the case of a serious
complaint.
• If the young people require assistance to complete written complaint assistance should be offered.
• Fair Ways will accept verbal complaints.
• Any complaint will be addressed seriously and without delay. A complaint will be fully responded to within a
maximum of 28 days.
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We appreciate feedback about the service that we provide and therefore compliments can be shared via written or
verbal forums of your choosing.
For a copy of our Complaints Procedure or if would like to file a complaint/compliment, please contact the Head of
Service on 02380 230 400 or email compliments@fairways.co or complaints@fairways.co
All policies relating to child protection and safeguarding can be obtained by emailing safegaurding@fairways.co or
by contacting Fair Ways, Head Office, on 02380 230400 or by email: hello@fairways.co
To contact Ofsted, they can be called on 0300 123 1231 or email enquiries@ofsted.gov.uk
Document
Ref:
Version
No:
Summary of
changes:
SOP01 1 Launch – 1 st
draft
Page Release
No: Date:
- June
2023
Written by:
Jim Windebank &
Charlene Hacking
Approved
by:
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