The information that follows describes three cases referred to Young Foundations. Names have been changed.

John
John is a 15 year old male with a history of risk-taking behaviour. He has been known to the Social Services Department since he was 10 and has had six placements in this time. Placements have included foster care, secure accommodation and therapeutic community. Whilst John can present as being verbally and physically aggressive, he can also be articulate and good company.

John will interact appropriately on many levels if he feels safe and not threatened. He has alleged that he was sexually abused as a child but this allegation was not substantiated.

John's needs are seen as complex and over time he has been diagnosed with a learning difficulty, epilepsy and Aspergers Syndrome.

David
David is a 13 year old male who self harms. He has been subject to several psychiatric assessments in both open and secure environments. David is also an absconder and this behaviour obviously places him in potentially dangerous situations.

David's interpersonal skills are limited and he finds it difficult to develop appropriate relationships with both his peers and adults. He has low self esteem which transfers into aggressive and potentially violent behaviour.

He enjoys being physically fit and will engage in activities which he is interested in.

During assessments David has been diagnosed as having moderate learning difficulties, Autism and Kleinfelter's Syndrome.

Philippa
Philippa is a 16 year old female who has a history of multi-placements and rejection.

She has been diagnosed with a socialised conduct disorder and her behaviour reflects this condition.

Philippa can be verbally and physically threatening. She has difficulty in developing and maintaining appropriate relationships which has a negative effect of her self esteem and how she perceives herself, others and situations.

Philippa, when angry or upset, can indulge in risk taking behaviour and will try to involve others in her actions. She has little insight into any dangers and will actively encourage confrontation.

Philippa's care plan recognises the need for a structured residential placement that will offer high levels of support from a range of professionals in a homely environment to assess the ongoing risk she poses to herself and others.