On this page, we show what we have changed so far and how we continue to develop our care. Yes We Can Clinics took the Inspectorate’s visit seriously from the outset. We therefore chose to implement many improvements immediately rather than wait for the Inspectorate’s report.
The changes we have introduced do not alter the core of our treatment philosophy: intensive, safe and compassionate treatment for a highly vulnerable group. They do, however, place greater emphasis on the balance between protection, autonomy and shared decision-making.
Improvements implemented and key developments
September 2025
- Appointment of new clinical management at Yes We Can Clinics
- Evaluation of interventions, with adjustments or discontinuation where necessary
October 2025
- Appointment of the first medical psychiatrist
- Repositioning of lead clinicians
November 2025
- Reorganisation of treatment teams and transition to smaller-scale teams
April 2026
- Appointment of a medical director
During the regulatory inspection by the Health and Youth Care Inspectorate (IGJ), we accelerated and implemented a number of changes based on our own analysis and discussions with the Inspectorate:
August 2026
- Protocols relating to premature termination of treatment, absconding and physical intervention in emergency situations were reviewed and amended where necessary. These protocols were independently reviewed by external legal experts.
- The role and involvement of peer-experience counsellors in group sessions were clarified and strengthened.
- In week 9, group counsellors hold an evaluation meeting with every young person to discuss their experience of the group sessions and any areas of concern before discharge. The outcome is documented and discussed with managers to ensure that any learning is embedded through a PDCA cycle.
- In addition to the regular presence of psychologists or educational psychologists, the lead clinician also participates regularly in group sessions, with the aim of further improving quality and safety.
- In addition to peer consultation, supervision and treatment-plan evaluations, a structured ethics review process has been introduced. This provides staff with a regular opportunity to reflect together on complex situations, professional practice and ethical considerations.
- The requirements for peer-experience specialists have been strengthened. An accredited qualification, or a commitment to obtaining one within a reasonable period – in line with the timeframe for obtaining a qualification through a partner training institution – is now required, including for existing staff members.
- Young people are actively informed about existing and new arrangements concerning the external confidential adviser and independent complaints committee.
- We have appointed a Youth Experience Programme Lead to ensure that the experiences of young people, both past and present, are heard more effectively.
September 2026
- The welcome pack and information provided at the start of treatment have been extensively revised. Young people and parents now receive clearer information about the treatment, our approach, and their respective rights and responsibilities. The core message remains that we share responsibility for creating a safe, substance-free recovery environment.
- The number of house rules has been reduced from 22 to 10.
- Where a young person is unhappy with arrangements or house rules during treatment, an individualised approach is considered and discussed with the young person.
- Post is no longer checked for the presence of substances or potentially distressing messages.
- ID documents are only kept centrally at the young person’s own request.
- During both the initial assessment and treatment, young people are actively informed of their option to consult a confidential adviser and are given information on how to contact them.
- Clothing requirements have been replaced with clothing guidance.
- During the initial assessment, we explicitly discuss the steps that will be taken, as a matter of care and due diligence, if a young person indicates that they wish to end treatment prematurely. It is also explained that a young person can leave without going through these steps. This process has been independently reviewed by external legal experts.
- All young people are supported in having contact with their parents, step-parents or carers during their first week of treatment.
We continue to develop
Quality improvement is never complete. That is why we continue to listen, investigate, review and learn. The experiences of fellows and families, the knowledge and experience of our colleagues, and insights from professionals and external partners all contribute to this process.
Some developments can be implemented immediately. Others require further research, preparation or careful consideration. We continue to critically review our care and share the steps we are taking to improve it.
This page will evolve with us. We will continue to share the developments we implement, what we complete and the new steps that follow.
Do you have an experience, question or suggestion that could help us further develop our care? We would be very pleased to hear from you.
