For Referrers
Information for professionals making referrals to The Walden Shed.
Important: Referral-Only Service
The Walden Shed is a referral-only project. It is not open access, and young people cannot self-refer. This model allows appropriate safeguarding oversight, shared information, and accountability.
Who Can Refer
Referrals are accepted from professionals and services who already know the young person and understand their level of need.
Referral Criteria
The Walden Shed is designed for young people who are showing early warning signs that, without intervention, could escalate. We work best with young people who:
- Are disengaging from school or education
- Are showing antisocial behaviour in the community
- May be involved in low-level offending
- Are experimenting with or using substances
- Are disconnected from positive adult relationships
- Are at risk of exploitation or criminal influence
- Would benefit from practical, hands-on activities
- Need consistency and relationship-based support
What We Can't Support
To maintain the quality and safety of our provision, there are some situations where we may not be the right fit:
- Young people with severe mental health needs requiring clinical intervention
- Situations where immediate crisis response is needed
- Young people who present an immediate safety risk to others
- Cases where open-access provision would be more appropriate
If we're unable to support a referral, we'll always try to suggest alternative services that might be more suitable.
The Referral Process
1. Initial Contact
Get in touch with us via the enquiry form below or email team@thewaldenshed.com. Provide a brief overview of the young person's situation and your role.
2. Referral Discussion
We'll arrange a conversation to discuss the young person's needs, your concerns, and whether The Walden Shed is the right fit.
3. Information Sharing
If appropriate, we'll ask for relevant background information to help us understand how best to support the young person.
4. Decision
We'll let you know whether we're able to offer support. If we can't, we'll explain why and suggest alternatives where possible.
5. Introduction
If the referral is accepted, we'll work with you to introduce the young person to The Walden Shed in an appropriate way.
6. Ongoing Communication
We'll maintain appropriate communication with you and other involved professionals throughout our work with the young person.
Make a Referral Enquiry
To start a conversation about a potential referral, please email us at team@thewaldenshed.com
Please include the following details:
- Your name
- Organisation
- Your role
- Email address
- Phone number
- Young person's age (approximate)
- Brief overview of the young person's situation and why you think The Walden Shed might be appropriate (do not include any identifying information at this stage)
Please confirm in your email that you are a professional making this referral enquiry in an official capacity.
Email Referral Enquiry