B&H CALL Care & Support Services provides a safe and friendly home environment for children and young people open to Social Services including unaccompanied minors. We provide support for young care leavers to develop living skills that assist in their transition to independence. We have experienced staff supporting young people with complex needs. Mental health care services for children in care and supported living are vital to ensuring these vulnerable populations receive the necessary support for their emotional and psychological well-being. These services typically include:
Therapeutic Support: Individual and group therapy can address trauma, anxiety, depression, and behavioural issues. Approaches may include cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), play therapy, and family therapy.
Crisis Intervention: Immediate support is available for children experiencing acute distress or crises, helping to stabilize their mental health and prevent escalation.
Skill Development: Programs focusing on social skills, coping mechanisms, and emotional regulation empower children to manage their feelings and interactions effectively.
Collaboration with Caregivers: Engaging with foster parents, group home staff, and other caregivers is crucial for creating consistent support systems and understanding the child’s background and needs.
Access to Resources: Connecting children and families with community resources, including recreational programs and educational support, enhances overall well-being.
Culturally Responsive Care: Services are designed to be inclusive, recognizing the diverse backgrounds and experiences of children in care.
Support systems management for children in care and supported living is essential for ensuring their well-being and development. This approach encompasses various strategies and resources aimed at creating a stable environment that meets the unique needs of these children. Key components include:
Individualized Care Plans: Developing personalized plans that address each child’s emotional, educational, and social needs. These plans are regularly reviewed and adjusted based on the child’s progress.
Multi-Disciplinary Team Collaboration: Involvement of various professionals—social workers, educators, mental health specialists, and healthcare providers—ensures a holistic approach to care.
Family Engagement: Actively involving birth families, foster families, and caregivers helps maintain connections and fosters a sense of belonging and stability for the child.
Advocacy and Support: Ensuring that children have advocates who can navigate systems on their behalf, addressing issues related to education, healthcare, and legal rights.
Training and Resources for Caregivers: Providing training for foster parents and staff in supported living settings equips them with the skills to effectively support and nurture the children in their care.
Community Integration: Encouraging participation in community programs, activities, and services promotes socialization and helps children build relationships outside their immediate care setting.
Crisis Management Protocols: Establishing clear procedures for responding to emergencies or behavioural crises ensures the safety and well-being of all children in care.
Empowerment and coping strategies are crucial for children in care and supported living, helping them build resilience and navigate the challenges they face. These strategies focus on enhancing their sense of agency and providing tools to manage stress and adversity. Key elements include:
Building Self-Esteem: Encouraging children to recognize their strengths and achievements fosters confidence and a positive self-image. Activities like skill-building workshops and recognition programs can be beneficial.
Decision-Making Opportunities: Involving children in decisions about their lives—such as daily routines, activities, and personal goals—promotes a sense of control and ownership over their circumstances.
Emotional Literacy: Teaching children to identify and express their emotions helps them understand their feelings and communicate effectively. This can be achieved through discussions, art therapy, and role-playing scenarios.
Coping Mechanisms: Providing tools for managing stress, such as mindfulness exercises, breathing techniques, and journaling, equips children with practical skills to deal with difficult situations.
Peer Support: Creating opportunities for children to connect with peers in similar situations fosters a sense of belonging and shared understanding. Support groups and social activities can facilitate these connections.
Access to Resources: Ensuring children know how to access mental health resources, educational support, and community services empowers them to seek help when needed.
Encouragement of Independence: Gradually increasing responsibilities helps children develop life skills and prepare for future independence, such as budgeting, cooking, and self-care.
By focusing on empowerment and effective coping strategies, we can help children in care and supported living develop the resilience necessary to face challenges, leading to healthier emotional and psychological outcomes.
Contact us today for a consultation and embark on your journey to success.