Our Approach

Our team is extensively trained in understanding and addressing Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and employs a Trauma-Informed Approach as the cornerstone of our service delivery. We deeply acknowledge the lasting impact of past traumas on a young person’s emotional well-being and are equipped with therapeutic models to effectively support them.

In our interactions with young individuals, we prioritise open discussions about any mental health needs they may have, facilitating their access to local services and online resources aimed at enhancing their mental health and emotional well-being.

We recognise that young people who have endured trauma in their formative years may encounter additional hurdles beyond the typical challenges of adolescence. To address these complexities, we provide an in-house mental health and well-being service that offers personalised weekly sessions to our young participants.

Staff: 

Progressive Independence recognises the value of a workforce that includes people from diverse backgrounds. We actively promote equality and challenge discrimination. Progressive welcomes and encourages job applications from people of all backgrounds. All staff work to build alliances with children and young people and outside agencies, supporting the development of a sense of self, belonging, and expression, and providing a listening ear. Staff are viewed as positive role models or allies in championing inclusion.

Young People: 

There is a continuous focus to ensure that all children and young people have equal opportunities to achieve and grow into the best versions of themselves regardless of their gender, ethnic or racial background, religion, ability, or sexuality. We actively promote the British Values of tolerance, fairness, respect for other faiths, and the rule of law and democracy. These values underpin both home and education.

At Progressive Independence, we celebrate diversity and inclusivity in all its forms. We are proud to provide safe environments for children and young people who are in transition or are questioning gender stereotypes and non-binary identification. Our organization supports individuals from all backgrounds, including Muslims, and we actively engage with and support children and young people on their journey of self-discovery and expression, including those who identify as non-binary.

As part of our commitment to inclusivity, we recognise and celebrate cultural and religious events such as Ramadan, ensuring that our Muslim residents have the space and resources they need to observe this important time. We also strive to create an environment where children and young people feel comfortable expressing their religious beliefs and customs, fostering a sense of community and understanding among all residents. We celebrate the differences that make each individual unique and strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all.

Keyworker allocation

When a young person is referred to us, we take the time to get to know them, including likes/dislikes, interests, what they enjoy doing, and hopes and aspirations. This allows us to tailor their individual support plan, to include engaging in community activities they will enjoy (e.g. sports, outdoor pursuits, music) and steps towards career goals that will achieve a happy and fulfilling future (e.g. accessing an apprenticeship, work experience or training course).

Every young person has an allocated keyworker, who builds a trusting, positive relationship with the young person and maintains regular contact with them, so the young person can share any issues or concerns. Furthermore, our staff are skilled in observing changes in a young person’s behaviour, so even if they do not verbalise their concerns we can identify potential signs that something may be wrong and explore this with the young person.