Gemma is a young woman with profound, multiple learning and physical disabilities. Gemma moved from her family home to live in her own shared tenancy, with a full 24 hour support package. This move required ELCAP to work closely with her family, the Social Work Department, and the Health professionals. ELCAP staff had to carefully plan, make agreed changes and review Gemma’s support package in order to ensure this transition went smoothly. Gemma has a support team who work a variety of hours to ensure she has staff support at all times, including overnight.

Gemma is supported in all aspects of her life. Gemma is encouraged to be involved in all the choices she makes; where she spends her time and who with; in the activities she does; and to live as full a life as possible. ELCAP continues to work in strong partnership with all the relevant people and professionals involved in Gemma’s life to ensure that all her needs are met well.

Gemma cannot speak but can communicate her enjoyment when she tries new things by laughing and smiling.

Gemma’s parents say, ”We like the fact that Gemma has a consistent staff team who have got to know her well. Now we want her to get out and do more things.”

ELCAP support worker says "Gemma has got a wicked sense of humour. It is amazing to see her doing things which might have seemed impossible several years ago."

Jane is a married woman with a young family who has a progressive, physical disability. We support Jane to have some time for herself and to give her time away from the family home. We provide a couple of sessions per week, and do things with Jane that she had previously stopped doing due to her increasing physical disability. Jane also now does some work with us in our local office.

Jane says "I have the same worker each week who I have got to know really well. We have built up a great relationship & I really enjoy my time with her. It has also been great to volunteer in the ELCAP office which has allowed me to develop new skills."

ELCAP support worker says "I have worked with Jane for a long time and thoroughly enjoy the time I spend with her. I have seen Jane grow in confidence and she has even helped to interview for new ELCAP staff".

ELCAP staff help Drew to maintain the tenancy for his house and to manage his money. They also advise on health and medication, assist him to manage risks, to maintain contact with his family and friends and to find activities to engage in

Drew says, “ In the morning, my staff ask me what colour I am. That is to find out how I am feeling and my staff put the colour on my chart. Sometimes I am feeling good and we can get away out. I like looking for music and I’ve got staff that help me.”

Drew’s parents say, “The staff help Drew keep in touch with us. We like that contact. They have helped him become more independent and also help him work out what’s safe to do.”

ELCAP support staff say “ It can be a challenge to keep him engaged and motivated but when it all comes together it’s fantastic.”