The living section
The unit is set within attractive landscaped grounds and offers a comfortable living and working environment in which young people are encouraged to invest pride and a sense of ownership. The educational and sporting facilities (which include a gym, fitness centre and tennis court) are resourced to a very high level.
Additionally, the living accommodation is comfortable, colourful and carpeted. Each young person has his or her own bedroom with en-suite facilities. Many young people will benefit from television and music systems and they are encouraged to personalise their rooms with appropriate photographs, posters and other personal items. Under no circumstances will young people share bedrooms.
The annex is entirely self-contained with its own kitchen and social and dining area. It is situated close to the centre of the site and accommodates a mixed resident group. Its young people are included in the full group for education and leisure activities to maximise opportunities for development. Both buildings are surrounded by a range of grassed and courtyard areas which offer scope for outdoor interests.
The centre has many technical security features to ensure its safe operation for both staff and young people, but wherever possible these have been designed in an unobtrusive and discreet manner. No electronic or mechanical means of surveillance is used within the unit, apart from in the visiting rooms.
Catering
The catering facilities at the unit provide a counter tray service offering a wide range of food from a multicultural menu. The style and presentation of the food service empowers the young people to make choices and experiment with new tastes.
Meal times are considered an important part of their social skills education. Consequently, we strive for a congenial and relaxed atmosphere, encouraging the young people to participate in menu planning and to express appropriately their individual needs, likes and dislikes.
The aim of the service is to create a 'feelgood factor' whilst incorporating the nutritional and dietary, ethnic and religious needs to ensure the wellbeing of the young people of Vinney Green.
Visits
Frequent contact with parents and other significant people in the lives of the young people is actively encouraged by the secure unit. Regular visits are considered to be in the best interests of the young people and can be agreed with 24 hours notice. As far as possible, visits should not interfere with the daily routine of education and other activities.
All young people have an allowance and access to telephones in their rooms and are encouraged to contact family and friends by telephone and letter.
FOR SECURITY PURPOSES ALL VISITORS TO THE UNIT WILL BE REQUIRED TO PRODUCE FORMAL IDENTIFICATION AND WILL BE PHOTOGRAPHED AT THE POINT OF ENTRY.
Young women
The unit actively seeks referrals on young women. Facilities are available to ensure the discreet needs of young women are met.
Independent representative
A Voice for the Child in Care is a registered charity which provides an independent representative who makes themself known to the young people at the secure unit and who will safeguard the rights and welfare of each individual. This representative visits weekly and is available to meet with the young people and advise them on matters which may be of concern.
Complaints procedure
Young people accommodated at Vinney Green Secure Unit have access to the complaints procedure, which will be explained to him or her on admission to the unit as part of the induction process. All young people have an opportunity to express their dissatisfaction with food, clothing and other services and routines which affect their lives.
Rules and regulations
These are kept to a minimum, but those in place are designed to ensure the health and safety of both staff and young people and to maintain a good living and working environment. Vinney Green consistently adheres to the anti-discriminatory practice and takes a strict stance against this. The young people have weekly meetings with members of the care team to discuss all issues regarding the unit and its operation.
Control and discipline
A feature of many of the young people admitted to the secure unit is that they will have a history of poor behaviour. It is inevitable therefore, that staff will be confronted by difficult behaviour at times. The primary basis for control is the relationship between staff and the young people, supported by a number of rules and regulations. Any sanctions imposed are within clearly permitted guidelines and do not include corporal punishment, deprivation of food, refusal of visits or fines. The unit operates a 'rewards and incentives' system, emphasising the benefit of positive behaviour and the consequences of unacceptable behaviour. In order to prevent self-harm or injury to others, physical restraint may at times be necessary. However, restraint is always used as a last resort. All staff are trained in the use of control and restraint techniques.
Health
Each young person will be given a medical examination within 24 hours of admission, except at weekends, unless in an emergency. This is to ensure that the person is in good health or that any medical problems are treated and any necessary medication is prescribed. The unit employs a nurse who attends the unit daily and will advise young people and staff caring for them on health-related matters. All young people are registered at the local health centre where there is a doctor on call for emergencies. The doctor also holds a weekly surgery at the unit.
Religious observance
Young people are encouraged to follow and participate in their chosen religious practice as much as possible. Representatives from religious groups are encouraged to visit the unit.
Financial allowances
Each young person receives a pocket money allowance each week, which varies according to age. Similarly, a clothing allowance is credited each month at one set rate. Those unable to leave the unit can make purchases through catalogues or through staff. The unit operates a 'no cash' policy. All monies are held for the young people and spent on their behalf as and when required.
Bullying procedure
Vinney Green promotes a bully-free zone. Bullying is not tolerated.