About Us
Our Auton children’s homes are located in residential settings in Newcastle, Sunderland and Darlington.
Children and young people live as a close-knit household but have their own bedrooms, which they can personalise to reflect their identity and encourage a sense of belonging. Shared dining areas and recreation spaces allow them to enjoy time together and make group decisions – like choosing menus or deciding what to watch on tv – helping to promote sharing and tolerance.
Education is a crucial part of each young person’s development and helps them to realise a fulfilling future. Our Auton homes have dedicated spaces for study and homework and we are committed to providing the guidance and support each young person needs throughout their school, college or training placements.
Our young people are encouraged to take part in a wide range of positive pursuits and hobbies at home and in their local communities. They can take part in household activities, such as preparing and cooking meals, helping them to acquire the skills they will need when they leave our care.
We safeguard and promote the rights of the children and young people in our care and ensure that they are involved in discussions and decisions relating to their lives.
Our Aims
- To provide a non-institutional, therapeutic environment based in an atmosphere of approval and acceptance of the individual as a unique person with a background, personality and choices of their own
- To create an atmosphere in which young people are encouraged to value and develop personal relationships by providing situations and experiences that build trust, self-esteem and mutual respect
- To provide a child-centred environment that enables young people to receive positive role modelling and guidance through continuity of reliable relationships and consistent, nurturing care
- To assess strengths and needs in order to develop an individual care plan in accordance with current legislation to secure the best possible outcomes for the young person
- To provide a safe, non-judgemental environment to encourage age-appropriate development and secure a positive future.
“Staff members provide a very positive living environment for this young person, they go above and beyond their job role to ensure the young person feels important, listened to and cared for.
“They work in a way that always ensures the safety of the young person whilst providing enough freedom and encouragement to allow the young person to gain self-esteem, confidence and build their own sense of identity.”
Shaneen Clarke
Action for Children – Independent visitor April 2017