Qasim house, situated in Harrow, specialises in allowing residents to acquire the responsibility of independent living while being supported by staff, in order to smooth the transition of moving from foster care or children homes. Accommodation is available for four young people between the ages of 16 and 18. There are two bathrooms, and a large kitchen on the ground floor. A living room is provided with television and DVD player as well as a PC. Clients are expected to use the communal living and dining areas.
Local Community
There are cinemas, sports centres, theatres, libraries and a swimming pool all within walking distance of the house. Public transport is also readily available throughout Harrow. There are rail and coach stations in the town centre offering convenient access to the whole of London.
Staffing
At Qasim House staff provide cover on a “needs” basis to encourage self-development, they work closely with the young people and their social workers. Night-staff are on the premises to support clients with cooking and any issues that may arise. Key work sessions are carried out once/twice a week focusing on client’s present state and helping to achieve goals set by the clients and social workers.
Personal Support Plans
Each resident will be allocated a Key Worker; during the initial four-week assessment period an individual Personal Support Plan will be devised. This support plan is reviewed so staff can work towards helping residents’ move-on into independent accommodation where appropriate. HLC has recently developed an Outreach Support Service whereby service users establish tenancies in the community.
Opportunities
Residents are encouraged to take advantage of the many opportunities available whilst they are with us. Courses are available at local colleges and other education providers. In some cases qualifications can be achieved. There is a health and fitness centre and a strong emphasis is placed upon encouraging residents to adopt a healthy lifestyle. Staff are available to teach cooking and other everyday life skills.
Conduct
Rules are kept to a minimum, in order to instil self-responsibility, but some are necessary and include:
- Behaviour to one another and guests is expected to be of a reasonable standard.
- Alcohol and drugs are not allowed inside the house.
- Guests are not allowed in resident’s bedrooms without prior permission.
- Residents are expected to be active in seeking employment or training where this is part of the Personal Support Plan.
- Residents are required to keep their rooms’ clean and communal areas tidy and to assist in the gardens.
Length of Stay
The staff and social workers determine this. Where appropriate, the aim is to help individuals achieve independence, so that they can proceed to move into their own place, confident that they have the skills to succeed.
Conditions of Residency
Before we can assess an application, prospective residents are asked to sign a Data Processing Consent form. All residents will need to sign a Living-Agreement and abide by this. Residents will be given a handbook that includes important information about living at Qasim House.
Referrals
Referrals in the first instance should be made to Higher Level Care. The level of risk to the public, staff and residents will be the principle-determining factor.
For further information
Staff at Higher Level Care welcome informal enquiries regarding Qasim House from those considering making a referral. Prospective residents are encouraged to visit the home by prior appointment, as are Social Workers, and other professionals.