Parent guide NEW AHS March 2023

How do I keep in contact with my child and how do they contact me?

Will my child stay in the same house whilst they are a student at the School?

We will always help and encourage your child to contact you, either by telephone, text, email, skype or letter, and will assist them with any incoming calls/mail. When young people first stay away from home it is a difficult time for them and you, so please phone or write as you can in the first few weeks. This usually settles into a pattern of one or two phone calls a week, probably on specific days. There is a phone on each house (see contact page). Regular telephone calls between parents, young people and staff help keep all parties well informed. A Key Worker will endeavour to call parents weekly. During the times of 07.30 – 08.45 and 15.30 - 21.00 staff will ensure their time with all the young people is priority, therefore staff may not be in the office to take your calls immediately. Please leave us a message and someone will call you back as soon as they are free.

Young people will move houses during their time at the school; this may be due to their age, level of maturity or compatibility with other young people. Any potential move of houses will be discussed and agreed with you and your child beforehand. Your child will also be given the opportunity to visit the new house before they move, to allow them time to get to know the house, staff and their peers.

What is a Key Worker and what do they do?

Can I visit my child for special occasions, such as birthdays?

Every young person is allocated a Key Worker. They will introduce themselves to you and keep in contact with you on a regular basis.

The Key Worker will work closely with your child to ensure they settle in well and have their needs met accordingly. They will liaise the key team to set realistic targets to enable your child develop their life skills and maximise their potential.

We understand that it can be difficult for both young people and parents to be parted on birthdays and other special events. We therefore work to ensure these really are special days with a party supper and games. Any members of the young persons family are welcome to visit. If this is not practical then staff will work with you to ensure that your child receives their presents and cards and speaks to you on the telephone.

If you do have any worries or concerns or there is anything you wish to talk about, the Key Worker is the ideal person to make contact.

Updated March 2023 8

17

Made with FlippingBook - Online catalogs