Group Home Services

If you are interested in opening a group home with Sunny Haven Residential Services, here’s a detailed guide to help you understand the initial steps and what to expect:

1. Initial Inquiry

• Contact Sunny Haven Residential Services: Reach out to Sunny Haven to express your interest in opening a group home. You may download the referral packet at the top of this page.

2. Application Process

• Submit Referral Packet: Complete and submit the referral packet provided by Sunny Haven. This form will collect information about your proposed group home, your qualifications, and your experience.

• Background Checks: All potential staff members and adult household members must pass criminal background checks and Child Protective Services (CPS) checks.

3. Facility Requirements

• Site Inspection: Prepare your proposed group home for an inspection by Sunny Haven. They will assess the site for safety, space, cleanliness, and accessibility standards.

• Health Screenings: Ensure all staff members have up-to-date health screenings and immunizations, including tuberculosis.

• Compliance with Standards: Your facility must meet the standards for group homes, including adequate living space, fire safety measures, and accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

4. Training and Certification

• Pre-Service Training: Participate in mandatory pre-service training sessions provided by Sunny Haven. Training will cover essential topics such as person-centered planning, medication administration, crisis intervention, and compliance with Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) regulations.

• Staff Certifications: Obtain necessary certifications for all staff, such as CPR and First Aid.

5. Approval Process

• Facility Assessment: Sunny Haven will conduct a comprehensive assessment of your proposed group home. This includes interviews, detailed facility inspections, and evaluations of your ability to provide a supportive environment.

• Review by DBHDS: Your application and assessment report will be reviewed by the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS) to ensure compliance with state regulations.

• Licensing: Upon approval, you will receive a license to operate a group home under Sunny Haven Residential Services.

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What to Expect

During the Process

• Thorough Evaluation: Expect a detailed evaluation of your facility and your ability to provide a safe, supportive environment for residents.

• Commitment to Training: Be prepared to invest time in completing the required training and obtaining necessary certifications for all staff members.

After Approval

• Ongoing Monitoring: Sunny Haven will provide continuous support, including regular monitoring visits and additional training opportunities.

• Community Integration: Your group home will need to provide an environment that promotes community integration and individual choice for the residents.

Relevant Regulations and Standards

• DBHDS Regulations: Adherence to DBHDS licensing standards for group homes, including health and safety requirements, staffing qualifications, and service delivery standards.

• HCBS Requirements: Compliance with HCBS settings regulations to ensure that services are delivered in a manner that promotes community integration and individual choice.

• MES Guidelines: Follow MES protocols for billing, documentation, and service provision to ensure accurate and timely Medicaid reimbursements.

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By following these steps and understanding what to expect, you can successfully start your journey towards opening a group home with Sunny Haven Residential Services.