Adding a new residence during a covid-19 crisis

At Project 43 we recognise that everyone involved in promoting the welfare, protection and care of children and vulnerable adults are working extremely hard in the face of unprecedented challenges. The coronavirus pandemic represents a time of severe pressure across society and we are mindful of how this may present a heightened level of risk for some individuals. It is, therefore, especially important to us that these individuals continue to receive the support they need at Project 43, although the way in which this is delivered must be adapted to reflect the current circumstances.

As a teaming our 16+ semi independent accommodation, we have put in place a variety of methods to adhere to the Governments Coronavirus guidance. For example, at the Project we are currently limiting the number of unnecessary visitors and are considering whether certain activities can be carried out remotely to minimise the potential exposure to the virus. Furthermore, where possible social distancing guidelines are followed by staff and frequently touched surfaces, including bathrooms, toilets and kitchens are being sanitised more often. Hand sanitiser and DOH guidance has been positioned around the Project, in view of both staff and residents.

Unaccompanied asylum-seeking children (UASC)

As outlined in the Governments Coronavirus guidance, when an unaccompanied asylum-seeking child arrives in England, the local authority will need to take steps to ascertain the countries they have travelled from and through and to ensure that, if necessary, they are placed in suitable accommodation in isolation from other people for 14 days.

At the Project being a semi independent accommodation for care leavers

we have experience working with such children and have successfully accommodated and supported the self-isolated of 5 UASC females. Due to the size of the property, the young people in question were able to reside within a self-contained part of the building whereby they had access to their own lounge, kitchen and large balcony. Alongside this, staff catered 3 meals a day for these young people and would deliver their food wearing the necessary PPE.

As an organisation we are confident that we are COVID-19 aware and are adhering to all necessary guidance to maintain the health and wellbeing of our residents and staff.

I think the staff and residents all took little bit away from this experience. We feel it acutely broke down barriers with some of the residents towards the UASC.

After the isolation period was over the residents were very unsure of the UASC due to the language barrier. On the first night out of isolation we cooked a large meal for all the residents to share, it was very quiet at the start then the chatter started. The first comment from one of the young ladies was to the UASC was "I love your hair; can you please do mine like that". From that moment on all the girls formed a little bond where every night hair braiding, creche time with the babies, and video games were played. It was over these times spent together that they opened up about their journeys to England, and what life had previously been like for them. This was a massive eye opener for the girls at the project, they were shocked at the lengths they had to take to make it this far. Shortly friendships formed and the girls at the project were caring, compassionate, and looked forward to spending time with the UASC girls. They even called each other ‘sisters’.

The girls then shared their journeys of motherhood and growing up in the UK. When it was time for the UASC girls to leave the project, it was a very touching moment as all the girls at the project were emotional to see them leave, this memory will always stick with me.

The staff also build great relationships with the UASC females, and like the residents their eyes were opened to how much they had experienced at such a young age. Once out of isolation the UASC females spent their time between their bedrooms/lounges and downstairs with staff helping to cook and clean at their own request. This even prompted other residents to get stuck in with chores, they defiantly set a good example.

During the UASC’s stay the house was a very happy and positive place, it really did feel like a big family. And what started off as a difficult adjustment turned into a positive experience for everyone involved.

enjoy your day

Project 43