Case Study 8
Following from our success with other South Tyneside Council packages, we were presented with a difficult package.
North East
Local Authority - Children's Services
Given the nature of the packages we provide, we can't always give the information as to which specific authoity this is under
Introduction
This service user is 13 years old and seeking Asylum alongside their family. The service user does not speak English and has diagnoses of Autism Spectrum Disorder, Learning Disabilities and Epilepsy.
This presented a difficult challenge, as we have not previously supported an individual who does not speak English. Our bookings consultant has had to recruit and use staff who are experienced in supporting young people with communication difficulties. These staff members have had to adapt and learn the service user’s communication plan to provide effective support. Similarly, our consultants had to ensure the necessary documents and training were put in place with staff to ensure an overview of the service user was available, and staff knew what support would be needed.
Care Package Overview
The service user is energetic and bold, which can manifest in mischievous and naughty behaviours. For example, the service user can physically lash out and spit at people/objects when in public. Support from Standby staff focuses on improving English communication, appropriate behaviour in public and engaging in education.
When the package first began, the service user would physically and verbally attack staff, had extremely limited English language skills and had a strained relationship with their siblings. This was a challenge for us and our staff, as the language barrier proved to be difficult when trying to support the service user through any issues they had.
After just a month with our staff, the service user is more confident with English and has gained the ability to use several words/phrases in correct situations. The service user also regularly engages in the community, visiting shopping centres, museums, and other activities. The service user’s behaviour has also become more appropriate, mainly due to an improvement in communication between them and staff.
Going Forward
There are still some challenges we face with supporting this package, there is a negative relationship between the service user and their siblings. Our staff are working on improving the communication pathways between the service user and their family to rectify the situation. Similarly, staff are working alongside the service user to help them understand their feelings, with the goal to prevent outbursts when family members try to aggravate them.
The service user has not engaged regarding education, Standby and staff are working alongside other members of the care team to help motivate the service user to engage. This is an ongoing process.
Featured Case Studies
Please take a look at some of the other challenges we've faced, and the solutions we've put in place for some of our other clients.
Case Study 2
Supporting a 12-year-old with diagnoses of Autism Spectrum Disorder and associated learning difficulties. The service user has a history of challenging behaviours such as smearing and physically violent outbursts. The service user requires 2:1 support and specialist support when it comes to communication.
Case Study 3
This service user is 15 years old and has a history of absconding and substance use. The service user has a diagnosis of ADHD and Oppositional Defiant Disorder and is under a Section 31 Care Order.
Case Study 4
A support package to care for a 17-year-old who has been in children's residential care for the last 2 years. The service user has a history of substance abuse, which has been a family norm since childhood. Support from Standby staff focuses on reintegration into society, gaining confidence, seeking education and self-actualisation.
Case Study 5
This complex care package was based in Northumberland; the service user was a 60-year-old gentleman who received an Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) when incarcerated. The service user had a history of sexual assault, which resulted in extremist views and sexualised behaviour post-ABI.
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