To avail of our service, young people must be:
> 18 years or older
> Have a primary diagnosis of a mild/moderate intellectual disability / on the autism spectrum
> Interested in a New Directions service which will develop and progress the individual’s strengths and abilities
> In the care/caseload of a Guidance Officer, HSE Day Service Supports, Guidance & Development Unit (Co. Donegal).
New Referrals
Our new referrals are introduced to Donegal Horizons CLG. by their HSE Guidance Officer and an initial interview / school and home visits are carried out to assess the suitability of the service for the individual and to ascertain hopes and future plans.
There may be several meetings in this introductory phase to include visits to our sites by the young person and their families to view first hand the services provided.
Taster Sessions
Donegal Horizons CLG then offers ‘taster sessions’ during which the referred students can come on a day per week basis for a period (generally 6 – 10 weeks); to interact with our staff and trainees already in – service, experiencing what the organisation has on offer – to assist in the decision-making process.
Once it has been confirmed by the trainee, their family and the organisation that the service is a good ‘fit’; the Guidance Officer will apply on the family’s behalf for funding to enable the trainee to attend on a full time (5days per week) or on a part time basis.
Person Centred Plan
Based on the individual’s PCP (Person Centred Plan) which will be drawn up by the individual during his/her first weeks in service (and reviewed/updated continually); a programme of training and Community opportunities will be devised.
> Work with our Client Services Coordinator and Client Services Support Worker; who act as the link staff between our new referrals and the rest of the staff Team
> Regular review meetings, to which all individuals involved in the young adult’s life are invited
> These are held in order to ensure that the hopes and aspirations are being met
> Make sure that the young person is making the required progress towards achievement of holistic personal and family goals.
For more information on the Referral Process, please contact:
Patricia Convey – Training & Community Services Manager – All sites
Designated Safeguarding Officer
patricia@newhorizonspartnership.co.uk
Tel: 0868096565
Or
Adam Campbell – Training & Community Services Manager – All sites
Designated Safeguarding Officer
adam@newhorizonspartnership.co.uk
Tel: 0868096565