Philosophy

Once resident at Howestead Lodge young people live in an environment where boundaries and expectations are clear, where care and control are offered in a consistent manner.

These principles provide a base line from where an eclectic approach to treating difficulties and problems is managed. 

Our environment is based on the theory of ‘milieu therapy’  which means that the total environment and the social relationships within, encourage the natural healing and development of the young person.  Our message is loud and clear.  We accept totally the young person’s feelings, individuality and right.  We endeavour to enable them to reject the behaviour, which makes trouble for themselves or for others and which prevents them from being accepted and competent individuals in society.

We seek to create an environment, which provides the incentive and motivation to grow and develop their talents.  The environment provides opportunities for modelling the kinds of behaviour we would want young people to take on board.
Quite often the ‘therapy’ of the environment is the most important tool, which successfully effects a change in behaviour and the effects positive growth and development.