The Mallard

THE MALLARD - Encouraging children with a disability to reach their maximum potential. The Mallard provides care and support to children with disabilities and their families. The Mallard and The Garratt are situated in Springburn, Glasgow, ten minutes travelling time from the city centre. The Mallard provides Short Breaks and The Garratt provides residential long term care and support to children and young people with disabilities. Many of the children who use the service also have sensory impairments, communication difficulties and social and emotional difficulties. Both houses are homely furnished, providing a safe and stimulating environment for the children. The well equipped garden areas provide lots of opportunities for the children to explore. The Sensory Room, Spa and Computer Room are favourites with the children who use the service and are important to the continual development of the children. Every child has a Personal Plan and a named Key Worker who works together with those important to the child - family, school and social work - to ensure that the child receives the highest standard of care and support. Regular reviews are held involving the children. As part of this process goals are agreed and everyone works towards supporting the children in achieving these goals. Who Cares? Scotland provides an independent advocacy service to both houses ensuring that the children's interests are fully considered. An Advisory Group, with representation from children and parents as well as others, meets every 3 months to consider any issues raised about the service. Parents are kept up to date with news and developments by Newsletters; and events such as B-B-Qs and parties ensure that the children, their families/friends and staff are fully involved in the project. Staff are registered with the Scottish Social Care Council and have or are in the process of gaining the required qualifications. Staff take part in a programme of personal development that ensures they have the required skills to work with the children.The Social Care and Social Work Improvement Scotland reports are very positive and comment on the high standard of care provided by both houses. Copies of the Reports are available from SCSWIS or from The Mallard/The Garratt. The aim of the service is to ensure the children experience a positive and rewarding stay while at The Mallard and The Garratt. When this is achieved the children and their families benefit from the service.