Referral process
Referrals and what to expect.
You can contact us about support for yourself or someone else. We also welcome enquiries from families, advocates, social workers, care managers and commissioners. A referral does not guarantee a service, and we will always be clear about what we can provide.
Seven steps
From first conversation to settled support.
The pace reflects the person’s needs and the agreed arrangements.
Start a conversation
Your name, contact details, the area where support is needed and a brief description.
Assess needs and preferences
Daily living, communication, health, routines, risks and goals, with the person involved throughout.
Consider the arrangements
Whether the support, staff skills and environment can be put in place. Visits can help if a move is planned.
Agree the package and funding
Care, staffing, timing and costs, plus any separate accommodation arrangements.
Develop the care plan
Preferences, goals and guidance for staff, with activity, life skills or PBS plans where needed.
Prepare for the transition
Introductions, getting to know staff, or a handover from an existing provider.
Begin support and review
A start date once preparations are complete, then regular reviews.
Before you start
Who can refer and what helps us.
Who can refer
- Social workers and care managers
- Commissioners and placement teams
- Health professionals
- Families and carers
- Individuals referring themselves
What helps us get started
- The person’s age and the area where support is needed
- The type of support being considered
- A short summary of needs and routines
- Any known risks
- Funding arrangements, if known
- How soon support is needed
Questions
Referral FAQs
Answers to the questions we are asked most often.
Does a referral guarantee a service?
No. We assess each referral individually and will explain honestly whether we can meet the person’s needs.
Can families refer directly?
Yes. Families and individuals are welcome to contact us. Where professionals are involved, we will usually work with them too.
How long does it take?
It depends on the person’s needs, the information available and staffing. We will keep you updated at every stage.
Next steps
Ready to refer?
Use our referral form, or call us to talk it through first.