Ben is a person we support at one of our specialist supported living homes in Hampshire. He is autistic and thrives off structure and routine. He finds comfort filling up his diary with exciting activities. In particular, he loves to go swimming and spend time out in the community, confidently engaging in experiences that reflect who he is.
But Ben’s life hasn’t always looked like this. Not long ago, Ben’s days lacked structure and his life felt like something was missing. He often slept for long periods of time, and the idea of facing busy, unfamiliar environments felt overwhelming. With so much uncertainty, Ben’s world became small and isolated. But through person-centred care, introducing structure and routine, Ben now lives a fulfilling life full of new activities.
Building structure
Our expert teams understand everyone is unique with different needs and challenges. Through our person-centred approach, we get to know each person as an individual, so their support can be truly tailored to their needs and goals.
When we met Ben, we quickly recognised how important routine is for him. Like many autistic people, structure is important to helping Ben feel safe and confident. Our specially trained team worked closely with him to introduce a personalised, structured activity plan, tailored to his communication preferences. This gave him a clear visual understanding of what each day would look like, helping ease his anxiety and feel prepared for each day.
Reintroducing Ben to community activities was approached gradually and thoughtfully. Our team were mindful not to overwhelm him, carefully considering how new environments might impact his wellbeing. Understanding Ben’s interests and passions, they considered what activities would suit his needs.
Swimming was a natural starting point for Ben. He’d always found water calmful and relaxing, so it had sensory benefits that were important to his wellbeing. From his first session, Ben felt relaxed. What began as a gentle reintroduction, soon became a consistent and much-loved part of his weekly routine. Now, he dedicates every Friday to swimming, and it’s become his favourite activity of the week.
Continuing to grow confidence
Week by week, Ben’s confidence grew. Engaging in activities that calmed his anxiety, he started to grow his confidence. Spending more time in shared spaces, he started comfortably interacting with those around him. His anxiety used to be a barrier keeping him from venturing outside his home. But with sensitive consideration and person-centred support, our expert team worked with him to change this. Ben safely started exploring a whole new world and opened up more opportunities.
As Ben’s confidence blossomed, he discovered more exciting activities that he could plan into his week. Ben now regularly visits specially adapted play zones and other beneficial activities in the community. New destinations became exciting possibilities, and Ben’s diary quickly filled up! Our team continue to support him with his activities, balancing his interests with his needs, ensuring he’s never overwhelmed. With a devoted support team behind him, Ben’s now a key figure in the local community and living the active, social life he deserves.
Ben spends more time out in the community than at home. His confidence has grown, his wellbeing has improved, and his days are filled with activities that reflect who he is and what he enjoys.
Sacha, Locality Manager
Empowering Ben to make his own decisions
Ben’s journey has been shaped by thoughtful support and partnership. During a person-centred review, Ben’s mum also became an active part of his care planning, suggesting ideas, sharing insights and helping to shape what came next.
Together, they focused on Ben’s passions and goals, making sure his life is full of happiness and fulfilment. Above all, Ben’s thoughts, feelings, and opinions have been at the heart of his support. Empowering his voice, he’s built incredible, trusting relationships with our supported living team. Guiding his choices to safely support his needs, Ben’s in full control of every aspect of his life – and he’s making sure each day is enriched and filled with exciting opportunities!
Want to learn more?
Interested in learning more about our supported living services? Visit our dedicated webpage.