For Parents
At Nucleus Horizons, we understand that coming to a family assessment centre might feel overwhelming, especially if this is your first experience of residential support.
Our aim is to make your stay as calm, comfortable, and positive as possible. We want every parent to feel respected, listened to, and supported while they work towards giving their child the best start in life.
What to Expect During Your Stay
When you arrive, a member of our team will welcome you, show you your private flat, and help you settle in. Each flat is fully furnished and has everything you need to look after yourself and your child. We encourage you to bring personal items to help you feel at home.
During your time with us, you will take part in daily routines, one-to-one sessions, practical learning, and group activities. These may include sessions on child development, routines, healthy eating, safety, baby play and bonding, and emotional wellbeing. Staff will also observe routines such as feeding, bathing, nappy changes, and general care to ensure we understand how best to support you.
We believe in working together. You will have regular meetings with your social worker to discuss how things are going, what is working well, and any areas where you would like more help.
Your Privacy and Dignity
Your privacy is important to us. While CCTV and monitoring may be part of your assessment, this is always explained clearly before you arrive and again during your induction. Our team will always knock before entering your space, and we use the least intrusive approach possible while ensuring your child is safe.
We are here to support you, not to judge you. Our values of kindness, respect, trust, open-mindedness, and transparency guide everything we do.
During your stay, you will have access to a wide range of support, including:
- 24/7 staff on site to help when needed
- A social worker and support worker allocated specifically to you
- Practical parenting guidance
- Workshops such as baby massage, sensory play, healthy lifestyle sessions, and budgeting
- Support with emotional wellbeing and healthy relationships
- Supervised family time with other relatives if required
- Help with attending appointments and court hearings
We want to give you the best opportunity to succeed, and we will work alongside you every step of the way.
Frequently asked questions
What should I bring with me?
Please bring your personal belongings, clothing, toiletries, and any items that help you feel comfortable. We provide cots and bedding if needed, but you will need your own pushchair, car seat, nappies, bottles, and baby essentials.
Will I have my own space?
Yes. Every family has their own fully furnished flat with its own kitchen, bathroom, living area, and garden space.
Can I have visitors?
Family time and visits are arranged through your social worker and the team, depending on your assessment plan and the needs of your child.
How long will the assessment last?
Most residential assessments last around 12 weeks, but this may vary depending on your circumstances.
Will I get support if I have additional needs?
Absolutely. We work with parents who have a range of needs including learning disabilities, experience of trauma, mental health challenges, and domestic abuse. We adapt our assessments to ensure they are accessible and easy to understand.
What happens after the assessment?
We will work with you and your social worker to plan the next steps. Some families move into the community with support, while others continue with additional services based on the outcome.
Whether you’re a family looking for support or a professional making a referral, our team is here to help.
We’ll take the time to listen, answer your questions, and guide you through the next steps.
