What about my children?

1. Who looks after the children?

   Mothers are responsible for looking after their children at Ashcroft House.  Children up to 8 years old will normally be accepted, but Mothers with older children may be considered.  Children of compulsory school age go to local schools in the area. During the programme time children are cared for by qualified nursery nurses in our in-house nursery.

2. What help is provided for children with particular needs?

   Placing/funding local authorities are required to provide an individual care plan for each child before admission to Ashcroft House and to contribute to reviews of each child’s progress while living at Ashcroft House.  We use trained nursery nurses, a play therapist and engage other children’s workers with appropriate professional skills as required to work with children who have particular assessed needs. 

3. “I don't want my children to be with addicts…”

   Ashcroft House is strictly clean and dry.  The use of alcohol or drugs is not permitted whilst living at the Centre, apart from prescribed medication.  Other rules and controls are kept to the minimum necessary to maintain the rehabilitation environment.  Mothers help to determine their own day-to-day domestic and social arrangements under supervision and with guidance from staff.  Mothers are expected to take responsibility for themselves and for their behaviour and to collaborate with other mothers and staff in the day to day management of the House.

4. Will I have time to myself with my children?

   

   Yes.  At evenings and weekends mothers are encouraged to organise and manage activities with their children, the use of recreation time, social, domestic and leisure activities.  Support Workers provide guidance and assistance when necessary.

5. Does the programme take all the time?

   The programme involves you in the day to day running of the House.  This includes cleaning, laundry, planning and preparing breakfast and evening meals for yourself and your children.  Staff are there to give support and guidance if required.  Mothers are encouraged to use their own particular personal skills and abilities to help each other.  They contribute by sharing their knowledge and experience as well as receiving help and advice from staff.

6. Who will care for my children whilst I am in programme sessions?

   Children under compulsory school age attend the in-house nursery when their mothers are working on their rehabilitation programme.

   The Nursery Nurses contribute to the treatment programmes for both children and their mothers according to individual needs.

   School age children are enrolled in the local schools and staff assist in arranging school places prior to admission.

7. Will my friends and family be allowed to visit me and my children?

   Generally, planned contact by family and friends is encouraged.  All visitors are subject to prior approval by the House staff.  Conditions for visits are agreed with individual mothers according to their progress within the rehabilitation programme and any restrictions imposed by Court Orders in relation to children.