Tel: 01372 841300
Lifestyle Opportunities
Our aim is to support individuals to prepare for supported and semi-independent lifestyles. Life Coaches work with each individual to explore 3 defining questions:
- What do I want to do with my life?
- Where do I want to live?
- How do I want to be supported?
This is achieved with a combination of taught and experiential learning. On site, we offer a simulated ‘Adult Education’ provision which might include: numeracy, literacy, IT, art craft and design, music, horticulture and drama. More broadly, we work in partnership with local colleges and supported employment providers to offer clients various mainstream opportunities. Work experience is a popular option for some as a way to make a positive contribution to their local community.
The Opportunities team also provides advice and support for clients to pursue leisure interests. Individuals are supported to research and utilise a range of transport options including using the train, dial a ride, taxis and buses. The focus is on practical skills, which young people can take with them beyond the Development Centre.
Placements at the Centre are for one to three years so a key element of every placement is active research into future living options. From the outset, we support people to explore some of the different styles of living available, whether it be a small group home, adapted housing using Personal Assistants or a shared tenancy with other people. We also work closely with local authorities to establish an appropriate future support package for the individual.
Woodside Training Flats
On site, we have sixteen self-contained purpose-built training flats. Clients receive a targeted training programme, led by our Occupational Therapist, with emphasis on preparation for a supported, semi-independent lifestyle. Clients take the lead in planning their own weekly schedules, likely to include a mixture of community based activity and work focused on developing skills to reduce dependence. A key element of this is learning to direct others to deliver one’s own support, whether that be a personal care routine or cooking a meal. It is hard work, and requires determination but has proved an invaluable transitional placement for people leaving home or college.
