Alternative provision
An alternative to mainstream education
Dorset Wellbeing provides a flexible, person-centred approach which recognises the diverse needs and strengths of each young person. We believe that learning should be as unique as the individual, with a focus on practical skills, emotional growth and building the confidence needed to thrive in life.
A placement at our provision can range from one to three days per week, tailored around the individual interests, strengths and needs of each young person.
We provide free transport to and from site as standard for our young people.
We can start our work as an outreach service - working in the home or a local public space, with the hope that they will eventually feel confident enough to join us at one of our unique sites.
Where helpful, we provide support and tuition in Maths and English, enabling young people to work towards Level 2 vocational qualifications by drawing on naturally occurring evidence from their day to day sessions.
Who can attend our provision?
Our service provides support for young people and children with complex and persistent SEMH and/or SEND needs.
This includes those who may be struggling with access to mainstream education, experiencing declining mental health or facing challenges that require a more personalised, supportive approach to learning.
We will work with a child or young person who:
Needs support because they’re unable to be at school full time
Is experiencing declining mental health and/or self-harm
Requires a calm and safe place to complete their education while working towards returning to school, post-16 education or apprenticeships
Needs a period of intensive care and input for the purposes of supporting their wellbeing while they are awaiting CAMHs assessment and treatment
Would benefit from a tailored, hands-on learning environment that emphasises personal growth, confidence building and resilience
Has struggled to engage with mainstream education due to social, emotional or sensory challenges
Requires a structured pathway towards independent living, meaningful employment or further education
Eligibility
Our main provision caters for CYPs aged 8 to 18
We offer a Pathways to Adulthood (P2A) programme dedicated to those 16+
In particular cases, we will work outside our main age range, dependent on an assessment of needs
We accept admissions from Local Authorities, direct referrals from schools, or self-referrals from parents/caregivers
If you know someone who might benefit from our services, or want to know more about our work, talk with us today.
“Dorset Wellbeing have been fantastic with our son, giving him the support and tools to help him grow and feel part of society”
— Parent, Weymouth