Placing your child into residential care is an emotional and often overwhelming decision. You may be navigating years of challenges — at home, in school, or with health professionals — and now find yourself facing something that feels like a last resort.
But you’re not alone. And this doesn’t mean you’ve failed. What it means is that your child needs a different kind of support — and together, we’ll find the right path forward.
At Nwando Care, we specialise in supporting children aged 8 to 17 who need structured, therapeutic homes due to emotional, behavioural, or neurodevelopmental needs. Here’s what the journey into care usually looks like, and how we walk it alongside you.
Step 1: The Referral and Assessment
It begins with a referral, often led by a social worker, SEND officer or health professional. Our team assesses whether one of our homes is suitable based on your child’s needs, history, education plans, and safety considerations. If there’s a potential fit, we begin planning in detail.
Step 2: Listening and Planning Together
We gather information from professionals and — crucially — from you. We ask about your child’s preferences, personality, routines, and what has and hasn’t worked in the past. With this, we build a placement plan tailored around your child’s emotional wellbeing, education, and personal development.
Step 3: Preparing for the Transition
Whenever possible, we arrange introductory visits. Children can meet the team, see the space, and bring familiar items to make their room feel like their own. If the placement is urgent, we ensure an immediate welcome with extra staff support and communication, so no one feels left out or rushed.
Step 4: Settling In and Building Trust
The early weeks are about building trust, safety and routine. Your child will be matched with a keyworker who gets to know them and advocates on their behalf. We help them settle into school or alternative provision and ensure they access the right health and therapy services. You’re updated regularly — not just at review meetings, but in day-to-day ways that help you stay connected.
Step 5: Reviews and Shared Planning
As your child adjusts, we hold regular planning reviews. These involve you, your child, and all the professionals supporting them. Whether the goal is reunification, transition to foster care, or preparing for independent living, we plan together — and update regularly. You’ll be involved in decisions around education, contact, culture, celebrations, routines, and milestones.
Staying Connected as a Family
Family doesn’t stop at the front door of a care home. We support regular phone and video contact, home visits where appropriate, and make sure your child continues to feel connected to their identity, language, faith, and family relationships.
We don’t just offer a place to stay — we offer a place to heal, grow, and build a future. And you’re an essential part of that.
