Introduction
InFocus is a national visual impairment charity for the education, care and support of young people, based in the South West. We cater for all levels of sight loss and a wide range of complex needs.
InFocus is SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disability) compliant.
Our aim
Our aim is to encourage each young person to be as active and independent as possible, whatever their ability.
Our friendly and supportive environment promotes positive relationships and positive self-esteem. From this secure foundation children and young people are equipped to thrive and achieve as young adults in the future.
Safeguarding
Our top priority is the safety of young people and making sure they achieve everything they can in life.
All staff are trained to QCF Level 3
Read more about Safeguarding including the list of people who work on the Safeguarding Team.
What we do
InFocus offers a unique experience for young people and adults with visual impairment including complex needs.
We provide high quality care that increases our young people’s opportunities and raises their expectations.
We are committed to inclusion, increasing independence, achieving results and creating a fun and social place to live and study.
What we offer
- We offer the following range of placements to suit the individual’s needs:
- Full time or part time residential placements for 38 weeks of the academic year.
- Residential placements in St David’s House for the whole year.
- Part time day or residential placements.
- Outreach services – offering support in schools, colleges and universities.
- Short respite breaks in our residential homes for young people and adults.
- Supported living in houses near to the InFocus campus.
- Employability, work experience and supported internships.
Residential Accommodation for under 18s
The residential accommodation for children under 18 has 11 beds between two homes. It consists of two well-furnished homes and both have dedicated staff teams. The homes are well equipped to meet the needs of the children.
Residential Accommodation for young adults
InFocus offers a range of accommodation where young people can experience independence in a supported environment. Each accommodation has a shared kitchen, dining area and lounge which enables young people to socialise whilst attending day to day life skills.
Education
Our aim is to challenge and encourage each young person to be as active and independent as possible, whatever their ability. Our friendly and supportive environment promotes positive relationships and the development of self-esteem.
InFocus works to get the right learning in place for children and young people who have a visual impairment. InFocus provides an adapted school National Curriculum and accredited academic and vocational college courses.
Health and wellbeing
We have a team of health specialists working with our young people. Every young person has a therapy and health programme individualised to support their daily life.
We offer a range of therapies on site, from physiotherapists to speech and language therapists to music therapists.
We have our own hydrotherapy and swimming pools, gym, trampoline and sensory playroom for young people to use.
Activities and free time
Other facilities at InFocus include cycles and trikes, a sensory garden, outdoor gym, Discovery Garden and radio station. The facilities are available for everyone.
There are lots of opportunities to get together with other young people. There are trips to the beach, sailing, wheelchair dancing, ten pin bowling, horse riding and residential trips. We also have an internet radio station called VI Radio.
READ MORE about our Specialist Facilities.
Children and young people’s views, wishes and opinions
Young people are actively encouraged to voice their opinions, views and wishes and staff will support them in doing so.
All children and young people are consulted with about decisions that affect their life, appropriate to their age, level of understanding and means of communication.
Children and young people are also involved in discussions about the day to day matters and routines.
Expressing concerns and complaints
We welcome complaints and representations and use these to continuously improve and develop our service.
All young people, parents, families, staff, professionals, members of the public and others involved with the young people have the right to make a complaint or representation.
Young people should talk to a member of staff they feel comfortable with when they wish to raise a concern or make a complaint.
READ MORE: Complaints Policy