Understanding What Referrers Are Really Looking For
When you run a care setting or educational provision, referrals are a lifeline. But even with a fantastic team and strong outcomes, you might find yourself wondering why more referrals aren’t coming through, or why some feel like a mismatch.
The truth is, local authorities, social workers, schools, and other professionals often have limited time, lots of pressure, and dozens of options. To get the right young people through your door, your service needs to feel clear, credible, and easy to understand from their perspective.
Here’s what referrers are really looking for when they explore your website, read your materials, or consider sending a child or young person your way.
Clarity on Who You Support
Referrers are often making quick decisions based on need, availability, and suitability. If they cannot immediately understand your offer, they may move on.
Make sure it’s obvious:
- What age range you support
- What types of needs or behaviours you specialise in
- Whether your setting is short-term, emergency, step-down, or long-term
- If you’re regulated (Ofsted or otherwise) and in which areas
This isn’t just about marketing, it’s safeguarding. Clarity supports the right matches for everyone involved.
A Simple, Clear Referral Process
It should never feel complicated or uncertain to make a referral. Many providers lose referrals simply because the form is buried or unclear, or because professionals can’t quickly find the next step.
You can help by:
- Placing a clear “Refer a Young Person” button or link on your homepage
- Explaining your referral process in plain language
- Providing downloadable forms or simple online options
- Including a named contact for queries or a direct phone line
The easier it is, the more likely professionals are to follow through.
Evidence That You’re Safe and Skilled
Referrers are responsible for the safety and wellbeing of the young people in their care. They want to feel reassured that your team is capable, experienced, and committed to positive outcomes.
You don’t need long reports or complex frameworks. Instead, focus on:
- Short case studies or success stories
- Quotes from professionals, families or young people
- Clear mentions of training, qualifications or therapeutic approaches
- Photos that show a calm, structured, and welcoming environment
Professionalism and warmth can live side by side in your messaging. You need both.
Responsive Communication
Referrers are often working under pressure. If they have questions or need to follow up, they want to know someone will respond.
Make sure you:
- Respond quickly to enquiries
- Set expectations about availability and turnaround
- Assign someone to manage referrals and follow-ups clearly
A timely, helpful response can be the difference between receiving a referral and missing out.
A Service That Feels Real, Not Generic
Many care providers sound the same: safe, nurturing, supportive. What makes you different?
Referrers appreciate honesty, specificity, and insight into what it’s really like to work with you. Share your approach. Show how you go the extra mile. Don’t be afraid to let your personality come through, as long as it supports trust and professionalism.
Final Thoughts
Referrers are looking for clarity, confidence, and connection. They want to match young people with services that truly meet their needs and make their lives better.
By refining your messaging, simplifying your referral process, and demonstrating your impact, you make their job easier—and more importantly, you help more young people get the support they need.
At Louise., we help Children’s Homes, Supported Accommodation, and Alternative Provision providers communicate their offer clearly and confidently, so they attract the right referrals and build stronger relationships with local authorities and professionals.
If that’s something you’re looking for, we’d love to help. Get in touch today.
