The team at one of our homes recently looked after a 10 year old boy (who we’ll name Gavin for the purpose of this article), who has now returned home to his mum.
In early 2020, Gavin’s mum was unable to safely manage significant challenging behaviour and was not receiving the support from the local authority she desperately needed. She made the heart wrenching decision to place her son into care; and one day, she did not collect him from school. The local authority started the search for a same day placement.
The team received the referral paperwork and felt heartbroken for the boy who was experiencing the traumatic events of ‘abandonment’. The home had an open vacancy and Gavin was a great match, so the team felt compelled to help. The Registered Manager, and a member of the care team drove 4 hours during the night to pick Gavin up from school. When they arrived, they met a small boy in his school uniform, clutching a small bag of belongings. They drove him back to the home, offering a safe and secure environment, equipped with a knowledgeable and loving care team.
Days after the placement began, the team received further referral paperwork, which made them believe they were in fact a suitable placement and were able to meet the other and unknown complex needs of the young boy. They started to build positive relationships with Gavin and assessed his needs to quickly find out how to meet those needs and make sure he felt safe and cared for.
After 3 months of consistent boundaries and routine, Gavin was surrounded by a care team dedicated to provide support and ensure stability. The team received a larger vehicle for the home, which enabled the young person to travel safely with only one carer, without the need for any further safety harnesses or seats, as directed by the placing authority and his mum. Gavin began to flourish as his needs and wishes were considered and supported, he built up his resilience to change, learnt to read and write and began meaningful work surrounding recognising and managing his own emotions.
During the past 12 months the team have worked closely with the local authority and have gone above and beyond to build a professional and positive relationship with his mum. The team have effectively been working towards his return home since the day he arrived. On Friday 15th January this was achieved. This once frightened and confused small boy returned to his family, with better communication skills, a wider understanding of the world and a new found confidence. To finish this wonderful story, I am delighted to tell you that Gavin has returned to education and is enjoying participating in fun activities at home.
“I am proud as a Registered Manager to say we delivered this care package and helped reunite this family.” – Home Manager.
