SL welcome guide - Stamshaw - JULY 23 (2)

Supported Living
welcome guide
Stamshaw

www.fairways.co

Contents
about us 4
staff team 5
accommodation 6&7
house rules 8
entitlements 9
support 10
taking responsibility 11
education &
employment
12
expectations 13
Absent from the home 14
useful to know 15
key contacts 16
If reading this guide is challenging, don't hesitate to seek help. We're here to support you. Request
assistance from our team or reach out to someone you trust. Accessibility is essential, and we aim to
make knowledge inclusive for all.

About us
Fair Ways offers accommodation for young people under the local authority's care, typically aged 16 to
18. We focus on developing essential life skills, including cooking, safe living, and semi-independent
living while respecting the home and fellow residents. Our staff assists in finding educational or
employment opportunities, managing health, making positive decisions, and handling finances. Our
goal is to prepare you for complete independence, equipping you with the necessary tools and
knowledge for a successful future.
We understand that transitioning to a new home with unfamiliar faces can be challenging. However, we
are committed to providing unwavering support without judgment, no matter the circumstances. Please
know that we are dedicated to assisting you with any physical, emotional, or mental health difficulties.
While we may not have immediate answers, we will work with you to find the help or direction you
need.
Our top priority is your fulfilling and enjoyable stay with us. We aim for your personal growth and
meaningful relationships with our team. Our objective is to offer an enriching and secure experience,
preparing you to navigate the world confidently after leaving supported living. Our dedicated team is
committed to your comfort and providing the necessary resources for your success.

Staff team
Leon
Emma
Amy
Paula
Support Worker
Senior Support Worker
Deputy Manager
Support Worker
Dedicated staff are available to provide assistance and support throughout your
stay. Trained and qualified, they meet stringent safety requirements. You will be
assigned a key worker to address your care needs, including health
appointments. Staff work in shifts to maintain appropriate staffing levels day and
night, ensuring effective planning and communication. Feel free to approach
them for any help.
Please be aware that the management team for Supported Living consists of:
Jim Windebank: Head of Service
Charlene Hacking: Operations Manager
Amy Reeves: Deputy Manager for Stamshaw

Accommodation
Our home is conveniently located near the heart of Portsmouth city centre, providing easy access to amenities,
shops, transportation links, and educational and employment opportunities. 'Cosham station,' the nearby train
station, is 1.9 miles away and can be reached within a 40-minute walk. Bus stops and local taxi services are also
nearby. 'Highbury College' is conveniently located near Cosham train station, offering accessible opportunities for
further education. Supermarkets are within a short walking distance from the home, providing convenient grocery
shopping access.
The home accommodates up to 3 young people, featuring shared
spaces like a communal lounge, bathroom, and kitchen. Your
individual bedroom comes furnished with furniture, a fridge, a TV,
and Wi-Fi.
Upon move-in, we provide fresh bedding and a welcome pack with
towels, and toiletries for your comfort. Here are pictures of one of our
properties to give you an idea of what to expect.

Stamshaw
Upon moving in, you will have your own personal room that you can customize with a provided budget,
and our staff will support you in this process. Your room will only be entered with your explicit permission,
except in health and safety emergencies, where staff will seek consent.
You will receive keys to both the front door and your bedroom door. It is recommended to lock your
bedroom when away to protect your belongings. We cannot be held responsible for lost or stolen items, so
please take necessary precautions. Assistance in keeping your room clean will be provided based on valid
reasons or health and safety concerns.
CCTV cameras are in operation outside the home to ensure everyone's safety.
At Fair Ways, each home is equipped with Wi-Fi to offer
you the convenience of staying connected with friends and
family through apps like WhatsApp. We encourage you to
use this privilege responsibly.
However, we prioritize your well-being and safety above
all else. In the event of any concerns or potential harm, Wi-
Fi privileges may be restricted or revoked. This decision
will be made in consultation with your social worker or
personal assistant to ensure your safety and best interests
are protected.
At Fair Ways, we focus on providing support rather than traditional
care, which may differ from your previous living arrangements. Our
role is to offer guidance and assistance, but there are limitations; we
cannot control your finances, restrict your freedom to go out, or make
decisions on your behalf.
To meet your specific needs, you'll have allocated weekly support
hours tailored to you. The home will have staff available throughout
the day and evening, with a sleep-in staff member present every
night for continuous support.
Visitors are welcome on the premises between 09:30 am - 10:00 pm daily. Friends must present identification, sign
the visitor's book, and be at least 16 years old (excluding family members).
One guest is allowed at a time, and overnight stays are not permitted. All visitors must follow house rules, and failure
to do so may lead to them being asked to leave. It is your responsibility to ensure your visitors respect the house
expectations and rules. Please communicate this to your guests accordingly.

House rules
During your stay, we will discuss house rules to promote harmonious relationships and mutual respect among
residents. These rules prioritize everyone's well-being and ensure a sense of security.
Some rules are non-negotiable and will be thoroughly explained by staff. Feel free to engage in open dialogue
with staff for any inquiries or clarifications. A comprehensive understanding of the rules is essential for their
effective implementation.
The rules include:
We strictly prohibit violence, intimidation, or bullying in any form.
It is crucial to refrain from intentionally damaging any property owned or provided by Fair Ways.
The introduction of illegal drugs or alcohol into the home is strictly prohibited.
Bringing pets or animals into the property is not allowed unless prior discussion and approval from management have
taken place. Special circumstances will be considered, taking into account the presence of other residents and
associated risks.
To respect the community and fellow residents, please keep music and noise levels at a reasonable level.
Respect others' privacy and safety by obtaining consent before entering other residents' bedrooms. Safety measures
such as keeping the door open may be necessary.
Theft, whether from Fair Ways or fellow residents, is strictly forbidden.
Please dress appropriately within communal areas to maintain a respectful atmosphere.
Failure to comply with the above guidelines may lead to a review of the suitability of your placement.

Entitlements
Key worker
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
entails establishing a trusting relationship with you, providing guidance on your entitlements, and keeping you informed about any relevant
updates or changes on a regular basis.
Outcome star
A personalised Outcome Star is developed in collaboration with you, identifying your specific needs, goals, and entitlements. This comprehensive
plan is regularly reviewed and updated with your active participation, ensuring that you remain informed about your entitlements and the progress
made towards attaining your goals.
Advocacy
You will receive assistance and guidance from your social worker to access advocacy services. Alongside your key worker, external advocates can
also be engaged to provide additional support as needed.
House meetings
These meetings offer a valuable platform for you to engage in discussions about your entitlements, address any concerns or issues you may have,
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
and suggestions for bringing about positive changes.
Regular communication
We prioritise open and transparent communication channels between you and our staff members, ensuring regular check-ins and the dissemination
of important updates through notice boards. Furthermore, our staff will provide updates following any meetings with professionals, keeping you
informed about relevant developments and maintaining a consistent flow of information.
Consent forms
Our objective is to provide you with exceptional support, which necessitates maintaining records about you. Rest assured that this information is
shared solely with the relevant professionals involved in your care. At the commencement of your placement with Fair Ways, you will receive a
Consent to Share Information Form containing more comprehensive details, which you will have the opportunity to read and sign.
We prioritise obtaining your consent when sharing information, ensuring that you have the right to refuse without facing any negative
consequences. Additionally, we make it easy for you to withdraw your consent at any time, and we will clearly communicate the process for doing
so.

Support
Food shopping
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
upcoming week and develop skills for independent living. You have the freedom to choose items based on your preferences, but healthy choices are
encouraged. Staff will assist with reasonable decisions and offer financial management suggestions. Using a shopping list will help organize
purchases and ensure you get everything needed.
Cooking
We encourage independence by having residents prepare their meals with staff assistance as needed. Please clean up after using the kitchen to
maintain its accessibility for others. You have control over your food choices from the weekly shopping trip. There will be a communal house meal
once a week, prepared collaboratively by staff and residents, fostering a shared dining experience.
Allowance
Each young person will receive a payment comparable to a job seekers allowance, covering food shopping, toiletries, and other expenses. The
method of receiving the allowance will be determined through discussions with your social worker. £25 is typically set aside for food shopping. Staff
will encourage saving a portion of the allowance to develop financial responsibility. There is an opportunity to earn an additional £10 per week
through personalized incentives, such as punctuality or contributing to house tasks.
Meetings & appointments
Our staff will keep you informed about upcoming meetings and appointments, providing support until you feel comfortable attending on your own.
We use a notice board for important announcements and schedules to help you plan and prepare. Prompt attendance at local medical
appointments is essential, and our staff will guide and assist you in navigating healthcare services.
Physical & mental health support
Our primary goal is your well-being through comprehensive support. We conduct risk assessments and create personalised support plans to
understand your needs better. If we have welfare concerns, we communicate them promptly to you and your professional network to foster effective
collaboration in addressing issues. Open and transparent communication helps safeguard your well-being and ensures you receive appropriate
support at all times.

Taking Responsibility
Tidiness
Keeping a clean and hygienic living environment fosters respect for the home and fellow residents. You will receive clear cleaning instructions and
are expected to fulfill daily tasks. Active participation may lead to rewards as a gesture of appreciation for your dedication.
Timekeeping
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
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
staff of your departure and return for health and safety purposes. This proactive communication helps maintain a secure and supportive
environment.
Security
Ensuring household security is paramount. Please lock appropriate doors and take responsibility for your guests. Protect your bedroom by locking it
with the provided key. Fair Ways cannot be held responsible for loss or damage to items in bedrooms. CCTV cameras are installed for overall
property security and safety.
Medication
You are responsible for self-administering prescribed medication. Fair Ways do not hold medication for residents. Staff can provide reminders but
cannot administer, record, or store medication. A lockable medical cabinet in your bedroom will securely store your medication, and staff will have a
spare key if needed.
Use of communal areas
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
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
mutual respect among residents, so please be mindful of others and their living experience.
Respecting neighbours
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
We will actively encourage and support you to pursue education and employment opportunities while you are
residing with us. If you are already enrolled in education, we will assist you in attending your classes and
provide the necessary support.
We recognise that each individual has unique learning styles and aspirations. Our dedicated team is here to
assist you in various ways, including arranging college interviews, exploring apprenticeships, and assisting
with job searches.
Rest assured, if you secure employment or engage in education, you will still receive your allowance.
We are committed to providing comprehensive assistance and support in any way we can.
At Fair Ways, we have an "education lead" who specializes in supporting you with various educational needs.
This may involve helping with application forms or preparing for interviews. If you require any assistance,
please don't hesitate to speak to our staff, who will make the necessary arrangements for you.

Expectations
Smoking
We acknowledge that individuals may opt to smoke, and we kindly request that you utilize the designated outdoor area and provided ashtrays for
this purpose.
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
yourself and others.
Drugs/alcohol
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
reassessment of your placement by the management team.
If you are struggling with substance misuse, we offer support and assistance to help you overcome these challenges. We can help you access
intervention services or simply provide a listening ear whenever you need someone to talk to.
Racism
Racism has no place within our home. We are committed to fostering an environment where every individual feels valued, respected, and free from
discrimination.
Inappropriate sexualised behaviours
We are dedicated to upholding a zero-tolerance approach towards any kind of inappropriate sexual conduct. This encompasses unwelcome
advances, remarks, gestures, or behaviors that may cause discomfort, objectification, or violation to others.
Bullying
Every individual deserves to be treated with respect, kindness, and empathy. Bullying, in any form, is strictly prohibited within our home. We are
committed to maintaining a zero-tolerance policy towards bullying to ensure the well-being and happiness of all our young people.
Sexism
Sexism has no place within our home. We firmly believe in promoting gender equality and dismantling discriminatory practices. We recognize the
value and potential of every individual, regardless of their gender or gender identity.

Absent from home
Returning to the home
You have the freedom to come and go, including approved absences. Please return to the home by
10:30 pm for safety. Staff will make welfare calls while you are out to ensure your well-being. If you will
be late, inform us in advance. Adhering to the agreed-upon return time and responding to welfare calls
ensures your safety and well-being.
Missing persons
Your safety is essential to us. If you do not return without contacting us, and it is not an authorized
absence, we may report you as a missing person to the police. If you stay with family or friends,
we will verify your presence for safety. Your well-being is our priority, and we will take necessary
actions to ensure it.
Reporting as a missing person is serious, and we hope to avoid it. We prioritize your safety and
appreciate your understanding.

Useful to know
Compliments/complaints
To express appreciation, you can send an email to compliments@fairways.co or request a compliments form from
staff.
For complaints, you can email complaints@fairways.co, request a form, or speak to a staff member.
We value open communication and promptly address concerns or compliments to ensure your safety and wellbeing.
Feel free to share anything you would like to discuss or raise.
Confidentiality
Respecting confidentiality is a priority in our home. Talk to your assigned key worker to understand how and
when confidential information may be shared with staff and professionals involved in your care. Keep private
information to yourself and respect others' privacy.
Criminal proceedings
We aim to reduce criminal involvement in our community through a collective approach. Instances of criminal
activity are taken seriously and continuously assessed. We maintain a positive relationship with the local police,
including regular conversations with residents and staff through Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs).

Key contacts
Fair Ways 02380 230 400
Childrens
commissioner
0800 528 0731
Ofsted 0300 123 1231
ChildLine 0800 11 11
Voice 0808 800 5792
(Advocacy
helpline)
Talk to Frank 0300 123 6600 Drug helpline
SHOUT Text 85258
Help with
mental health
Coram Voice 0808 800 5792
(Advocacy
helpline)
THE MIX 0808 808 4994
Help with
multiple
concerns

Questions
We highly encourage you to reach out if you have any inquiries or
concerns.
Our dedicated team is committed to providing thorough responses to your
questions. Please don't hesitate to share any queries or uncertainties you
may have, as we are here to assist you to the best of our abilities.

We look forward
to meeting you!
www.fairways.co