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These are just some examples of the areas we have worked with. We have worked with young people with a vast range of behaviours including self harming, attachment disorders, abuse in its many forms, etc.  We can supply further information on any area you may require.

Addiction

We have considerable experience of working with young people whose lives have been affected by addiction. This can be addressed in psychotherapy as previously mentioned.  Additionally young people wishing to learn about substance misuse, either because it affects them directly or has affected key family members, are provided with one to one sessions for as long as needed free of charge by the Sussex Youth Substance Misuse Service. This is a service that can be accessed quickly.

Anger Management

Anger management techniques are built into young people's daily care programmes where required.  Externally run anger management courses are arranged for young people in our care although where a child is prepared to work with a psychotherapist, this is frequently a preferable way to deal with anger as it deals with the origins of anger which tends to be more effective than simply coaching a child in methods of handling their anger.  Southern Adolescent Care Services has links with first-rate anger management specialists.

Depression

If a young person does appear to be suffering a significant level of depression, we aim to resolve the causes via psychotherapeutic work. However, short term we strongly encourage a visit to the GP and follow their recommendations along with those of the social worker.  The home develops full activity plans based on the individual child and their needs not least because careful structuring of the day and the provision of opportunities of achievement are of considerable help in the relief of depression.

Absconding

Southern Adolescent Care Services places high emphasis on keeping young people in our care safe and produces detailed risk assessments which are regularly reviewed. Both through weekly keyworking sessions and informal discussion with staff, the young people are educated in the risks of absconding and how to keep themselves safe. Substance misuse awareness and sex education are a part of each young person's Life Skills Programme at Southern Adolescent Care Services.

Offending Behaviour

Southern Adolescent Care Services aims to address and explore with the young person the underlying historic causes of their offending behaviour via keyworker sessions, informal discussions with staff or psychotherapeutic sessions.  We aim to contain behaviour through incentives and consistent application of rules and guidelines drawn up, specifically addressing developmental and rehabilitation needs. We actively encourage education/training opportunities and positive interests/hobbies. By providing suitable opportunities for a young person to gain a sense of achievement through the building of skills and knowledge, we aim to increase their self esteem and help them see a positive and realistic set of 'next steps' for themselves.  We work closely with Crawley Youth Offending Team which provides excellent support for young offenders including anger management work, sporting activities and activity weekends.