Who can access Bairns’ Hoose services?
In Aberdeen City we are still in the early stages of understanding the criteria required for accessing the support offered. We want to remain open and flexible in respect to our referrals, in order that we can ensure the right support is provided to those who require this, in a timely manner.
At this time Bairns’ Hoose referrals are generally for children who have been victims or witnesses of crime, or who may have been victims or witnesses of abuse or violence. If a child has disclosed that they have been a victim or witness to a crime, or it is believed they have been a victim or witness, a referral can be made to the Bairns’ Hoose for individualised support for them and their family.
Children under the Age of Criminal Responsibility whose behaviour may have caused or risked causing significant harm or abuse are also eligible for Bairns’ Hoose support where they will have access to trauma informed recovery, support and justice.
Pathways to access Bairns’ Hoose (Advocacy, Rights and Recovery Support Service) in Aberdeen City
- Interagency Referral Discussion (IRD) / Reconvened IRDs
- Scottish Child Interview Model (SCIM) Interviewers
- Childrens Social Work (SW) / RFA
- Self-Seeking Requests
It is believed that these will be the main routes to access advocacy, rights and recovery support, however, will retain flexibility as we test and learn this approach to ensuring accessibility to this support. We recognise that flexibility will be exercised with our other partners such as Victim, Information & Advice (VIA), Health and Education.
There is currently a referral form that we ask is completed to access support through the Bairns’ Hoose. This form ensures that we capture relevant information which allows us to identify the most appropriate support for the child/young person and their family.
All referrals should be sent to the Bairns’ Hoose email address (Bairns’Hoose@aberdeencity.gov.uk) where they will be allocated by the Bairns’ Hoose Co-ordinator.