Young People's Views
Glowing Minds empowers young people through co-creation. We use innovative methods to involve young people in designing and delivering their support, aligned with the National Youth Agency’s ‘Hear By Right’ standards. Our comprehensive Participation Strategy ensures their voices are heard.
Activities
Glowing Minds places young people at the heart of their support journey. We collaborate with them to create personalized Action Plans outlining their goals and aspirations. By tailoring support packages and working closely with other professionals, we ensure young people receive the right help at the right time. This approach empowers individuals to build strong foundations for their future success and wellbeing.
We prioritize young people’s choice in accommodation. Whenever possible, we involve them in the decision-making process about where they live. When time allows, we offer opportunities to visit potential homes before moving in, helping them feel more settled.
Welcome Books
Every young person at Glowing Minds receives a personalized Welcome Book containing essential information about their new home. This includes instructions on appliances, household routines, safety procedures, and contact details for our 24/7 support and local services. This resource helps to ease anxiety and promote a smooth transition into independent living.
Personalising the home
Glowing Minds encourages young people to personalize their living spaces. We support them in decorating their rooms with personal items and involve them in decisions about communal areas, such as redecorating or replacing furniture.
Feeling settled
Glowing Minds understands that the initial stages of a placement can be challenging. To provide essential support, we offer 24/7 on-site staff in our shared houses and assign a dedicated keyworker to each young person. We also provide essential contact information, including out-of-hours support, maintenance, emergency services, and local resources.
Our staff are trained to build strong, supportive relationships with young people, fostering open communication. We actively listen to concerns and monitor for signs of difficulty. By addressing issues promptly, we help young people settle in and thrive.
Maintaining relationships
Glowing Minds understands the importance of maintaining strong relationships. We provide safe spaces for young people to connect with family and friends through letters, cards, and phone calls, offering continuity during this transitional period.
To foster a sense of community within our shared homes, we encourage social activities chosen by the young people themselves. Examples include barbecues, movie nights, and game nights. These events create opportunities for connection and fun.
Glowing Minds is committed to understanding the experiences of young people and using their insights to shape our services. We believe in co-production, empowering young people to:
- Actively participate in designing and delivering their support
- Have equal opportunities to share their views, regardless of their needs
- Take ownership of their choices and celebrate their achievements
We regularly gather feedback through:
- Quarterly questionnaires
- Six-monthly text message surveys
- Online surveys
- Group discussions
- Exit interviews
- Young people’s event days
This information helps us adapt our support to meet evolving needs.
Glowing Minds’ group-wide Board is supported by an Advisory Committee made up of young people, staff, and carers, including young people living in our homes.
In response to young people’s feedback, we’ve simplified expense reimbursement for Advisory Committee members to encourage greater participation.
When young people share their views, wishes, and feelings with Glowing Minds, we:
- Practice open communication by explaining our actions or decisions.
- Share aggregated feedback with our Board of Directors.
- Incorporate feedback into contract monitoring reports.
- Use insights to develop Service Improvement Plans and drive positive outcomes.
