CO (566583) - Ofsted Registered children's residential home required for a 15 year old male

Durham County Council are currently seeking a solo home for CO, a quiet and polite 15-year-old male with light brown hair and blue eyes. In February 2023, CO was taken to a hotel in the local area by his biological parents who were no longer able to care for him. CO has recently been diagnosed with ASD and ADHD and requires stability and security from the home identified, something which has been lacking during his childhood. He has a real love for computer games which are calming for him and allows him to focus his attention. CO's favourite food is pizza, which he enjoys during downtime on an evening with his current care team. CO has an EHCP which is currently being reviewed following his recent diagnosis. CO has shown interests in Maths, English and History. He continues to complete work set by school and receives online tuition. CO can be really reflective, calm and can present as quite endearing with a quirky sense of humour. He does very well during one-to-one work with adults when he is feeling calm.

• CO can present with complex challenging behaviour that requires clear boundaries underpinned by a therapeutic understanding of CO's needs and experiences. • CO has good insight into his own presentation and admits that he will use behaviour to manipulate others. • A predominantly male staff team. • 2:1 staffing including waking nights. • Staff with experience who are able to therapeutically respond to challenging behaviour and remain calm if CO attempts provocative behaviours. It is evidenced that with a consistent approach that CO is able to reduce these behaviours over time. • CO has ASD and ADHD, he requires a staff team who can meet his sensory and emotional needs.

CO has had a complex time in care and within his family and this shapes his approach to building relationships. That being said he can build really positive relationships with professionals and engages really well on visits. He enjoys riding his bike, outdoor activities and walks and has a caring side. He has a good sense of humour and responds to gentle challenge with good humour.