Who We Help » Margaret
Margaret has developed a very busy life in her four-year relationship with Life of Your Own. In addition to recreational activities, she has learned effective participation in all aspects of domestic responsibilities.
The exceptional circumstances, which brought her to the attention of Life of Your Own, deserve special comment. As one person who knew her at the children's home commented: "she did not appear to consider herself handicapped or want to be around handicapped people". And her difficulties worsened as her supporters became increasingly mystified.
Facing a housing problem, which could have led to a further decay in lifestyle, Social Services worked closely with Life of Your Own to find a solution.
Margaret still has intensive support needs, but has shown a powerful ability to form friendships.
She is actively involved in all aspects of domestic life including shopping, cooking and cleaning.
Each week she helps cook dinner for one of the members of her local church community, where she also attends a prayer group. Her learning of effective swimming techniques has recently provoked thoughtful compliments from other regular swimmers.
Besides going to the gym each day, Margaret also works at a local stable and at dog walking.
Margaret's changes have also been marked by Life of Your Own's active pursuit of liaison with her family. Given away when she was 11, on the basis of third-party advice, Margaret's family had felt they were incapable of addressing her needs. However, her father has since helped with housing arrangements, and her sister is now closely redeveloping their relationship after many years apart.
It is our policy to seek secure social relationships whenever possible.
Margaret seems to cope better with changes as she comes to trust people more. She welcomes people into her life, and vocalizes in understandable ways more frequently, and has shown that she enjoys singing.
Work does not feel so difficult when it is seen to follow a complete cycle - integrating with meals and leisure.
We have identified that we can grow in our communication with Margaret using a visual system. The aim is for her to use photographs to make clear choices and be aware of the day's agenda, and currently we are expanding the range of activities and recipes described in this way. This system also benefits staff, increasing awareness of the details of support.
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