Introduction

Outline of section

Aims | Tasks | First interview | Co-ordination | Advocacy | Standards | Evaluation

Aims

• To welcome the client to the service.
• To give out the information the client needs to know immediately.
• To begin the relationship on a positive footing.

Tasks

• The environment in which the interview takes place is very important. It needs to be welcoming, comfortable and private. Try and ensure there will not be any distractions, and you have everything you need.

First Interview

• Check that you have the referral form, paper on which to make notes, and a new resettlement file.
• Welcome the client, introduce yourself, offer a tea or coffee etc.
• Introduce and explain to the client:

• the role of the resettlement worker and a brief overview of the resettlement process.
• the confidentiality policy of the project, asking the client to complete and sign a 'Release of Information Consent Form'.
• the rules of the project.

Then:

• explore the client's strengths and record these - this may be useful in motivational interviewing.
• make an informal assessment regarding the client's suitability for services
• explain the processes, what can/will happen and how - if the process is likely to be long, be up front about this.
• clarify the ground rules, gain agreements, and seek the client's views.

• If the resettlement worker does not accept the client on to the caseload, they must inform the appropriate worker and the client of the reasons why.
• If a client fails to turn up for interview, the keyworker should be informed and follow it up.
• Set up regular review meetings with other appropriate workers involved with the client. It is important that consideration is given to the presence of clients at these meetings.
• Prepare a resettlement file.

Co-ordination

• the resettlement worker should co-ordinate the review meeting for the client, involving the keyworker, the resettlement team/leader, and any specialist workers that may be involved with the client e.g. alcohol, mental health etc.

Advocacy

• This is to help clients towards self-assessment.
• If there is not an agreement as to when the resettlement programme should start, ensure that the appropriate worker supports the client.

Standards

It is important to have:

• a clear resettlement policy, setting out what the service aims to provide, and its limitations.
• a handout on the resettlement service including contact numbers

Evaluation

• Ensure that the client understands the role of the resettlement service, the timescale involved and their own role in the process.
• Prepare a checklist of the tasks in this stage, and ensure that they are all done.

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