The Meadows

All of our young people have at least a 1:1 staff member and are not part of a larger ratio. This enables staff to really get to know the people they are supporting and offer a service that is not just a temporary measure to give someone respite, but also look at their overall life goals and outcomes and become an active part in helping to achieve them. There is a level of attention given that simply cannot be mirrored in a larger ratio setting.

We invest in our staff. Alongside a mandatory training programme, staff are encouraged to take part in a varitey of other exciting knowledge days. Staff attending the Autism show - a national event to showcase all good practice within the field of Autism. We source face to face training from nurses and other professionals, rather than online or workbooks as we know people absorb better this way. We encourage our staff to continually develop and complete their diplomas to at least a level 3 in health and social care.

The Meadows @ GS is the next stepping stone for the successful GS Social Care to expand its horizons in becoming a 'one stop shop' for all social care needs. The provision will cater for ages 0-25 and so is open to commissioning from both children's and adults services. As well as self funders/people in receipt of direct payments.

Predominatly, its a 2 bed unit for overnight stays. This provision includes the following but is not exclusive:

- those with a learning disability

- those on the Autistic spectrum

- those with complex health needs

- those with a physical disability

Bedroom 1 -

A Safespace room. This has been uniquely designed to cater for those who display behaviours that need a level of intervention. It could also be for those who have significant sensory needs and would enjoy the comfort of being in the Safespace environment.

Bedroom 2 -

A profiling bed, mobile hoist and any other relevant moving and handling equiptment needed. This will serve for those who's issues lie predominatly within their lack of mobility or health needs and with less significant behavioural issues.

We envisage the following times of opening for the unit with it being a short break/overnight facility: 4pm-10pm (charged at our current rates to the authorities, all on the individual addeddments and level of need) 10pm-8am (10 hour overnight, charged at a fixed rate per person as a wake and watch duty)

Transport can be provided at an extra cost. Alternatively parents/carers/school/day care transport can collect from The Meadows.

Staff Training:

Mandatory training will be as follows, any speciality training will be sought as per individual referrals (pending availability of suitable trainers)

SAFEGUARDING

MOVING AND HANDLING

EMERGENCY FIRST AID AT WORK (TEAM LEADERS WILL COMPLETE A 3 DAY FIRST AID AT WORK COURSE)

PAEDIATRIC FIRST AID

MEDICATION ADMINISTRATION

AUTISM AWARENESS

EPILEPSY AWARENESS

MAPA PHYSICAL INTERVENTION

PEGG FEEDING

Referral Process:

Anyone can refer and book a place at The Meadows. Initially to call 01254 877755 at least 2 weeks prior and speak to one one of The Meadows team. We will then arrange a suitable time and date for you to come and view the centre and to complete a care plan, risk assessment and health declaration. For those taking medication, all medication will be kept in a lockable cabinet on site with the team leader holding a key.

Once all paperwork is completed an introduction hour can take place if family feel this is suitable (for those who may find it difficult to adapt to new settings)

We will also take EMERGENCY REFERRALS as long as we can be provided with certain information. All shifts will have the adequate number of staff. If a young person is assessed at 2:1 staffing throughout the night, a costing will be determined as all of our usual shifts will be based on a 1:1 staffing arragement. So in the majority of cases, there will be a member per individual on site at all times.