Case studies and testimonials

Matthew and David

In the Autumn of 2004 Matthew and David joined the Project’s residential service, with the aim of living in the community with minimum support. Both moved in to the Lodge where there is 24 hour support. They quickly became firm friends and progressed through the accommodation together as their skills increased and they became more independent. Eventually, on moving into Elms flat they had the opportunity to consolidate their independent living skills by looking after themselves, with support.

Whilst at the Project Matthew achieved NVQ 2 in Catering at Southampton City College, having first undertaken work experience placement in the main kitchen at Minstead Lodge. Matthew and David now share a flat in Totton where they are supported by Project Support Workers. In addition to ensuring that Matthew and David are coping independently, the Support Workers have helped them to establish and maintain friends and a social life and to access college and supported work opportunities.

Dan

Dan (23) joined the Project after leaving school, choosing to do activities two days a week. He enjoyed those days so much and his parents saw such an improvement in his motivation, confidence and self-esteem that he joined the residential programme a few months later and has not looked back. “I like everything about Minstead” he says, “especially driving the tractors and using them to move stuff, and mulching at Furzey Gardens”.

Dan enjoys his work experience: housekeeping at the Lodge one morning a week, and varied horticultural tasks at Furzey Gardens on other days. Weekly key work sessions involve guidance in planning and completing personal tasks, budgeting, shopping and cooking. The travel training has gone so well that Dan now travels independently on public transport at the weekends, going into Southampton to look around the shops and going to the gym, and to Salisbury to visit his mother.

Dan is excited about moving into supported living, sharing with his best friend at the Project, David. Dan is full of ideas for when he is his own boss, “I am looking forward to learning new things and going to college” he says, with a big grin.