Residential Care
We have a legal duty, to safeguard and promote the welfare of children whenever possible in their home and community. However, there are times when a child's interests are best met by being cared for out-with the family home.
The Children's Panel and the Sheriff Court can make legal orders that require the us to look after and accommodate children.
Parents, in partnership with us, can also agree that it would be in a child's interests for them to be cared for in a children's home for a period.
We provide and purchase a variety of types of residential care for children and young people. These include residential children's units, and residential schools, as well as other specialist services.
We have a total of five residential units for young people – two in Irvine, one in Dreghorn and two in Saltcoats – which provide accommodation and care for young people, aged usually between 12 and 18.
The aims of our service are:
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To provide residential care and support for as long as necessary to young people who can no longer stay at home
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To help them improve and develop family and other relationships
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To help with education and other areas of need
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To advise and support families if necessary
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To staff the residential units with appropriately qualified people
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To offer access to independent advice or support if required
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To work with young people and their families to help them return home or to live independently.