Western Pathways accept referrals from Local Authority health and social services as well as independent parties and private organisations. We strive to work with all referring agencies in a way that places the young person central to their support planning. The level of support provided will be increased or decreased as required and in consultation with the referrer to meet individual needs. For example, some may require 1:1 support 24 hours per day for only an initial period of time, or because of an unexpected raise in their level of need, staffing may need to be increased.
Once a referral has been received, formal referral discussions will take place as to the suitability of the young person for placement. This will involve consideration of the following factors;
- the match of the referral to the existing group of young people
- the range of learning and social needs of the young person referred
- any assessed healthcare needs
- risk assessments
- the degree of care and educational support required in relation to identified needs
- family circumstances and any implications for additional support
- the skills and experience of staff
- the immediate needs of other accommodated young people
A progression from referral will only be agreed when full discussion and explorations have been made prior to an initial, introductory visit by the client. All referrals for placement must be led by the young person’s placing authority/social worker or adult with Parental Responsibility. Placement decisions are made using information sent via a referral request and supported by relevant documentation, such as a Local Authority Pathway Plan, EHCP, Risk Assessments or health documentation such as Psychological, CAMHS, MDT, Social Circumstances and Risk Management reports, Crisis Intervention and Move-On Plans, Discharge Summary and Service Specification.
A pre-placement assessment and also an impact risk assessment will be carried out by the service manager to assess the suitability of Western Pathways to meet the young person’s individual needs. Specific consideration will be given with respect to compatibility of age, ability and gender of young people and in some circumstances, certain behaviours and/or offences may prevent a referral being accepted. The decision to accept a referral will be made by the Service Manager following consultation with senior staff members of Western Pathways. Once a referral is accepted, a transition plan will be developed to ensure the young person is moved in a timely and client-centred manner.
Pre-placements visits are an essential part of careful transition planning which enable the young person to adjust gradually to their new environment. This is particularly important in cases where young people are leaving a psychiatric hospital or adolescent mental health unit. The transition plan will focus on the inclusion of the young person at every stage and if appropriate, their family. It will include finding ways to ascertain their views, wishes and feelings, interests, likes, dislikes and aspirations. Western Pathways will aim to ensure every young person is and more importantly feels heard with regard to their placement with us.
Western Pathways will consider emergency placements where this is in the best interests of the young person. In this event, the suitability of the placement will be discussed with the professional referrer to ensure that the presenting crisis needs of the young person, can be appropriately met by our team. The normal pre-placement assessment will be completed within 48 hours in these circumstances.