Doing what I enjoy most
Football is a huge part of Paul's life and we fully support and encourage him to do what makes him happy.
Paul watches the matches with the Manchester United Supporters’ Club. They’re all devoted fans and he’s made some friends there. "The Supporters’ Club is a marvellous group of people. They look after me and make sure I'm ok."
Paul has mild learning disabilities, autistic tendencies and mental health issues. With a recent stay in hospital, he's missed out of many of the games.
“I do football training sessions and play a few matches. It's good fun, but you need to be fit! Karen is my main support staff. She's been helping me to keep fit. And I want to be, because I want to play football and continue to do the things I love. So I go hiking with a walking group and I'm having personal trainer sessions at the gym."
The staff are very kind and helpful. They are so supportive. Paul
Paul lives with two other people, who all benefit from the support provided. "We provide 24 hours' support seven days a week, with sleep-in support should the tenants need it. We help to keep the tenants independent. We never do things for them, when they are quite capable. Much of our work focuses on encouraging personal growth and helping them to live the life they want. For Paul it's about health and mental wellbeing, and being as supportive as we can. It's really not about spending every waking hour by his side. That's no life. It's about being there when he needs us." Karen, Support Worker.
One of Paul's goals is to continue with his education. He goes to the Nottingham Recovery College, where he's doing a personal development course.
Support that's right for you
We think support will only work properly when it is designed to give people what they really want. This means understanding people’s hopes and dreams, as well as their needs.
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