Visiting us

Visiting times are Monday to Friday 3.30 pm to 8.00pm, and weekends and holidays 9.00 am to 8.00 pm. Visits are usually up to two hours, but we can be flexible depending on circumstances and exceptions can be made for those that are out of county. We try to arrange visiting times around school times during the week to avoid any disruption to your child’s school day.

All visits have to be arranged in consultation with the home and your child’s social worker. You will need to call us on 01392 457999 to book your visit in advance and let us know who will be coming.

Please be aware that:

  • only two people can visit at a time
  • visitors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult
  • visits are usually one hour long, although you can ask for a special agreement for a longer stay
  • some visits may be supervised by staff

When you arrive please go to reception. You will be asked to sign the visitor’s book and to provide personal photographic ID, such as a driving licence or passport. You will be given a visitor badge, which you must wear at all times.

All visitors will be given a cordless phone and show how to use this.

Personal possessions such as handbags, keys and mobile phones cannot be taken into the home. You will be given a secure locker to keep your belongings safe during your visit.

Any money you would like to give to your child should be handed to reception. The receptionist will give you a receipt and put the money in your child’s account.

Certain items are prohibited and are not allowed in the home under any circumstances. This includes:

  • cigarettes, tobacco and cigarette papers
  • sharp objects
  • matches or batteries
  • solvent-based products such as glue
  • lighters and lighter fuel
  • drugs and medication
  • food or drink
  • Blue Tac or similar fixers
  • materials including magazines and books, which are not appropriate for your child’s age
  • cameras
  • razors and razor blades
  • tins, aerosols or glass items
  • mobile phones
  • recording devices – including MP3 players
  • jewellery and valuable personal items
  • CDs and DVDs with a certificate above your child’s age

And don’t forget:

  • if you try to bring any of the prohibited items into the home you will be asked to leave immediately and banned from any future visits
  • if an incident occurs that needs first aid please tell a member of staff
  • Atkinson is a no smoking area and we do not allow smoking or vaping in any of our buildings or in the grounds
  • if you hear a fire alarm during your visit please follow the instructions of our staff and make your way calmly to the exit they direct you to