• The number of car parking spaces provided should exceed the maximum required by the local planning authority. Staff shift overlap will require more than the basic provision. At least one bay should be wide enough to permit the parking of a minibus.
  • Every effort should be made to provide a vehicle turning bay away from the main entrance, to avoid the need to reverse vehicles within the grounds of the building.
  • Grounds may need to be laid out in a way that prevents some residents from leaving the site and finding themselves at risk. Where possible, the body of the building should provide an enclosed area and be linked to a discreet side fencing to the perimeter.
  • Boundary fencing should be a minimum of 1.75 metres high, with the effect softened by planting fast-growing hedges and trees.
  • Where possible, the grounds should be laid out to provide both fine and wet weather surfaces for recreation. An open-sided covered area is a tremendous advantage, as some residents may need to spend time outside whatever the weather. Cover from rain is an obvious advantage, but some of the medications used to assist some people with autism can also cause over-sensitivity to strong sunlight.
  • The grounds should permit the development of a 'private' garden area, within the whole, allowing residents to choose privacy from observation by others, whilst remaining within the safety of the grounds.
  • Where possible, the grounds and buildings should lend themselves to recreational and hobby skill opportunities.
  • Changes in ground levels throughout the site should be met with ramps rather than steps so that wheelchairs to be used by people with multiple disabilities, or by staff assisting someone who has suffered an epileptic seizure.