For some time we have been approaching commissioners and care management teams to discuss ways we can develop person-centred services for individuals with highly complex needs who may require a bespoke living environment. Recognising that we have the skills, experience and the clinical infrastructure to manage complex behavioural needs, we have been keen to develop creative solutions to accommodation requirements.

The success of literally building a service around a person’s needs has been highlighted at Boxgrove House in Tilehurst, Berkshire, where a separate, annex-style property provides a tailored solution for an individual with highly complex needs. This person had been finding it increasingly difficult to live within a group setting at a previous home and looked to be heading for a placement breakdown and most likely back into hospital. But within months of moving into Boxgrove Annexe the outcome could not have been more positive. He not only became much happier, but also regained many of the skills lost over previous years.

At Boxgrove Annexe all areas are wheelchair-accessible, with wide corridors,toughened walls and full hoist equipment in the en-suite bathrooms. The resident is encouraged to interact and gain independence within his environment by the use of switches and sensory-based equipment. The garden is landscaped, with a covered area, accessed straight from the annex lounge. The individual concerned is never happier than when in the garden.

All of our annexes are carefully designed to provide a proactive solution to managing some of the behavioural and risk issues presented by the people we support. This includes incorporating a variety of specialist equipment and assistive technology to promote independence and, where possible, reduce dependency on staff, thus helping to ensure that their care package is as cost-effective as possible.