NORFOLK LA and RNCF in partnership Assisted Boarding Network Improves the outcome of vulnerable young people Is cost effective Offers long term stability

Finding & Funding children in need of Boarding Chris Hughes Director RNCF

RNCF Criteria Which young people benefit from Assisted Boarding? Vulnerable, neglected, at risk usually have one or no active parents compromised or threatened by adverse home, school or family circumstances The child will be aged between 7 to 18 years, average length of support is 7 years. Overall we are looking at issues were the development of the child is being impaired and a case can be made that boarding will help meet their social needs.

Our criteria includes: Adopted – risk of placement breakdown Cared for by grandparents, relatives or friends From single parent family With 2 carers but where one is severely incapacitated

FINDING THOSE VULNERABLE CHILDREN State Primary Schools Encourage L.A. engagement – ‘Assisted Boarding Network’. State Boarding Schools – already a day pupil – change of circumstances – assistance with funding the boarding cost? Directly from families How will be help? We will co-ordinate the regional hubs: Establishing ‘best practice’ guidelines for Assisted Boarding placements Building relationships with suitable boarding schools Monitoring and research into outcomes Accountability to all stakeholders Plus ongoing support and advice to individual local authori

Assisted Boarding Network LOCAL AUTHORITITY – national step-change A child on the edge of care Looked after child, who may return back within the family, with the help of a termly boarding placement Boarding schools will not walk away, may be the main focus of security throughout their teenage years.

Funding placements LOCAL AUTHORITITY – part/full funding CHARITIES – similar criteria, work closely together SCHOOL BURSARIES Vary with each case, each school and each LA!

Application process, straight forward, thorough Make a phone call to RNCF Schools really do want to help these young people, and would welcome a visit from the LA

Vulnerable children can be: Neglected, low self esteem, little confidence, traumatised or depressed They can become: Happy, confident, high achievers, excelling beyond their peers, emotionally and academically successful

Summary We know it works We support these young people for up to 11 years. . . . . . . . average is 7 years We keep in touch Help us to help more young people

NORFOLK LA and RNCF in partnership Assisted Boarding Network Improves the outcome of vulnerable young people Is cost effective Offers long term stability