Referral & Assessment

Anchor Community Support Limited are proudly approved providers to the following authorities.

Ensuring the right placement, at the right time, for the right child

At Anchor Children Services we are committed to making thoughtful, well-matched and sustainable placements that give children the best opportunity to succeed. We follow a robust referral process guided by best practice, ethical decision-making and the therapeutic needs of the child.

Before accepting a placement we gather comprehensive background information to understand the child’s history, current circumstances and presenting needs. Where appropriate, we will arrange to meet the child to assess their compatibility with others in the home and determine whether our setting and approach are well-suited to supporting them.

This process allows us to:

1

Ensure we can meet their needs with the right resources and support

2

Avoid mismatches that could disrupt stability or progress

3

Identify whether the child is likely to benefit from our therapeutic and relationship-based approach

If the placement is considered suitable we will make a formal offer to the placing authority. Upon acceptance, a bespoke transition plan will be created in partnership with the child, their Social Worker and any other relevant professionals or family members. This plan will be sensitive to their needs, preferences and past experiences, supporting a structured move into our care.

Once placed, we carry out a comprehensive assessment of the child’s care and support needs. This assessment helps us identify what will help them thrive.
Our assessment process may include, where appropriate:

1

Mental Health and Emotional Wellbeing Reviews

2

Matching analysis for staffing and Peer Dynamics

3

Therapeutic and Relational Support Planning

4

Social, Behavioural and Life Skills Assessments

5

Education and Learning Needs Evaluation

6

Risk Assessments and Safety Planning

1

Education or EET Support

2

Staffing and Preparation

3

Staff Ratios

4

Therapeutic Input

5

Long Term Care and Support Strategies

6

Transition to Independence

A successful start can lay the foundation for long-term placement stability. Each child’s transition plan is tailored to their individual needs and may include:

Throughout, we prioritise the voice of the child by involving them in every decision. We encourage and support children to access advocacy services and speak to independent visitors, ensuring their voice remains central to our practice.