What is Adult Placement?

Many people with learning disabilities need help and support from people living locally. They need someone to introduce them to different experiences and activities, to develop practical and social skills, to help them enjoy life. The Bournemouth Adult Placement Scheme recruits, trains and supports people who can offer this type of care for adults with a learning disability.

An Adult Placement Carer may offer support in a variety of ways. They may:

• offer accommodation for a short stay
• provide permanent accommodation
• act as a sitter at someone's home
• take people out so they can join in activities in the community

The time this takes can vary from a few hours a month to full time care.

The aims of Adult Placement

The idea is to enable adults with a learning disability to:

• get out and about
• join in activities
• learn and practice daily living skills
• boost their independence and self-esteem
• increase their social network
• plan for the future

The scheme also gives carers a short break to enable them to continue in their caring role.

Who can be an Adult Placement Carer?

We are looking for people from all backgrounds and situations who can:

• communicate well
• appreciate the needs of people with a learning disability
• provide support and encourage their development

How can I be approved as an Adult Placement Carer?

We arrange meetings with you to get to know you and tell you more about the scheme.

We also ask your permission before making the following checks:

• enhanced Criminal Record Bureau
• two personal references
• full employment history
• medical history

Additionally we provide training including the opportunity to gain experience in supporting people with learning disabilities.

You also have the opportunity to meet approved Adult Placement Carers to see how the scheme works in practice.

Finding a match

When you have been approved as an Adult Placement Carer we take great care to look for a suitable person for you to support. We then arrange for you to meet and get to know each other to make sure everyone is happy. If you both want to go ahead with the placement we can then take things further.

What we offer you

As an Adult Placement Carer you will receive:

• payment for the care you provide
• a named support worker who will provide advice and visit regularly
• opportunities for training

You will also have the satisfaction of knowing you play a valuable role in caring for a person with a learning disability and helping them to develop their potential.

Registration of the Scheme

The Bournemouth Adult Placement Scheme is registered with the Commission for Social Care Inspection under the Care Standards Act 2000.

To find out more

We'll be happy to tell you more about the scheme and answer any questions you may have.

To find out more contact:

• Kate Stewart 01202 458799
• Ady Yelling 01202 458802