These preventative programmes involve a number of approaches, each of which are transferable and used across all Continuum's work. These include Restorative Conferencing, Parenting Skills Training, Educational Welfare, Care at Home and Respite Care and Adolescent Crisis Intervention.
Restorative Conferencing and Family Group Conferencing
Restorative practice seeks to develop communities by managing conflict and tensions by repairing harm and building relationships. One aspect of restorative practice is termed 'restorative justice' and is at the root of Continuum's concept of restorative conferencing. Through a focus on accountability we seek to reduce the number of young people involved in crime and wrong–doing. The roots of restorative work lie with an individual taking responsibility for wrong–doing through participation in the process of 'putting things right'. In addition to this young people gain a new perspective on their behaviours by reflecting on how their actions have affected others.
This work can be used in the family or community environment and extends to work with young offenders. Restorative practice is quickly becoming a vital tool in our residential work and has helped in developing young people's reasoning thorugh empathy and responsibility. All of our Restorative Conferencing is fully compliant with the related bodies and standards.
Parenting Skills Training and Mentor Programmes
Our outreach work focuses not only on the young person but on their family and provides guidance for parents, guardians and the extended family. This often involves educating those around the young person to deal with sometimes challenging behaviours and to resolve situations before they escalate. Our team guided by the principles of Webster Stratton 'the incredible years' techniques. Team leaders and fully trained in these methods to ensure consistency.
Encouragement and Provision of Educational Welfare
Continuum now has schools in each region of the UK and as a result offers education both inside and outside of the home for those who are not suited to mainstream schooling. A place in one of our schools is often a central part of our Family Support Service and allows an individual to re–engage in learning in a more appropriate environment.
Care at Home and Respite Care
We currently offer 'at home' care packages to those families who require support in their everyday environment. This involves trained memebers of Continuum's staff working within the home developing partnerships with families to create stability. In addition we also offer respite care for young people which may involve a short stay at one of our holiday homes where they can try new experiences and enjoy themselves.
ACT Team (Adolescent Crisis Intervention)
ACT includes several of our specialists in Crisis Intervention. Each of these individuals are trained in our unique Continuum Intervention Programme (CIP) and like all our staff are experienced in putting these skills into practice. This team is used when extreme circumstances require professional intervention and each team member plays their part in assessing each individual case and establishing a plan to resolve both behavioural and environmental issues.
