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Support gets young mum-to-be Jane back on track

 "I get hundreds of support and it's not as if you're linked to one member of staff - all the staff are here for you."

Jane came to Somerset Place after leaving a supported carer when she was twelve weeks pregnant on January 25th 2010. She was initially placed in care at The Good Shepherd residential school in Bishopton in 2005 following a breakdown in relations between Jane, her mother and step-father. Jane had been exhibiting inappropriate behaviour within the community. Spells back at the family home were interspersed with stays at other service providers - Quarriers, Elpis and a return to a secure placement at The Good Shepherd.

THE ISSUES

Jane’s physical and emotional health were primary concerns; she required support to maintain a healthy lifestyle and in addressing anger management issues which often left her distressed, especially when dealing with her boyfriend (and father of her child). Jane also required support in budgeting and housekeeping: cooking, cleaning etc and assistance with finding suitable move on accommodation that would be suitable for herself and her child.

SUPPORT PLAN

A needs-led support plan was put in place for Jane after an initial assessment and a key worker was appointed to work closely with her on her independent living skills. Counselling services were offered and Jane attended these for a while but decided that she was 'not ready' to engage fully in the process. Staff worked closely with Social Work and the Young Women's Project in order to coordinate the support required and identify suitable move on accommodation for Jane and her child.

PROGRESS MADE

Staff ensure that Jane feels safe and secure in the project and work closely with her when she becomes stressed or angry; Jane now manages her anger more effectively and can deal with stress better. She can now budget effectively, cook and maintain a high standard of personal and domestic hygiene; the outcome is evaluated by Social Work.

THE FUTURE

Jane hopes to move in with a supported carer after the birth of her child and will not require support from BTHA. However, visits will be made by Jane’s key worker subsequent to her move on.

IN HER OWN WORDS

Jane says: "I can now budget my money, look after my room and keep it clean and I can cook. I am feeling a lot better than what I was; I have learnt to walk away from stressful situations.  I get hundreds of support and it's not as if you're linked to one member of staff; all the staff are here for you.."