What We Are
Clare Lodge is the leading national provider of placements for vulnerable young women. It is one of only two all female, all welfare (Children Act 1989. Section 25) secure children's homes in the U.K. and is facilitated by Peterborough City Council.
All services provided are governed by the Children Act 1989, Care Standards Act 2000, and Children's Home Regulations 2001, and are based around the delivery of the five outcomes contained within the Children Act 2004. The home is licensed by the Department of Health and Inspected by Ofsted.
Clare Lodge accepts referrals in respect of young women aged 10 to 17 years who are in need of care and protection within a secure environment. Typically those placed have exploitation and abuse histories, and may have a range of health / mental health needs including those who are pregnant. Many of the young women suffer from a history of poor attachments, low self-esteem and may exhibit a range of challenging behaviours including running away, aggression, self harm, and drug / alcohol misuse. The Home can look after up to sixteen young women who originate from all regions of the U.K.
Clare Lodge is fiercely independent and not contracted to the Youth Justice Board though some of those placed may have offending histories. , The approach taken places emphasis providing a child focused, multi disciplinary service which works in partnership with parents, in an environment where the rights of individuals are protected and preserved. The young women live in groups of four in self contained accommodation, each with its own dedicated staff team. Through exposure to a diverse range of adults the Service seeks to provide a blend of good "parenting" by listening, giving advice, and acting as advocates for the young women coupled to specialist therapeutic input. By maintaining good supportive professional relationships the Service promotes dignity, respect, trust and a common understanding through which young women have time to address lifestyle and past experiences, and reflect upon behavioural and other difficulties.
For many young women their lifestyle prior to being placed will have had little structure, or sense of purpose. With this in mind a clear routine is quickly established with young women being encouraged to become involved in daily life at the home, and to take responsibility for their actions. Having clear expectations and routines allows the young women to feel a sense of belonging, and when expectations are met, a sense of achievement.
Clare Lodge offers comprehensive multi-disciplinary assessments and individual intervention programmes supported by medical, psychiatric, psychological input. The Service also provides a full time (year round) education programme, primary health care services, extended learning activity, art therapy, sexual health, drug / alcohol counselling, and personal fitness coaching to assist those placed maintain good health. Initial assessments are completed over a ten week period. Where circumstances allow, young women also participate in individually tailored educational and social mobility programmes.
Staff have considerable experience in responding to a wide range of difficulties as the following tables illustrate:-
Mental Health Issues
Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder 52%
Emotional / Behavioural Difficulties 45%
Substance Use 61%
Depression 36%
Anxiety 23%
Neuro-Developmental Difficulties 23%
Psychosis 10%
Learning Disability 13%
Not Known 06%
Risk Factors
Alcohol 58%
Drugs 39%
Self Harm 58%
Sexual Exploitation 55%
Suicide 32%
Violence 48%
Running Away 78%
