David's story: do you see me?
It’s Learning Disability week, and the theme this year is “Do you see me?” which is all about people with a learning disability being seen, heard and valued. David speaks to us about his experience living with Choice Care, and how he has been made to feel seen, valued and heard. Our Thrive framework highlights this, where we aim to make sure all people we support have understanding and are fully understood.
How would you describe living on the farm?
“I moved into Caernewydd Farm in 2018, and I love living here. My care team always make time for me, and I do what I love in the home with them, as they’re always supporting me to do things I enjoy.”
Unlike other residential homes across England and Wales, the farm is also home to sheep and chickens! Having built a great relationship with Graham, the farmer, David regularly gets involved in the farming – he’s even out at three o’clock in the morning during lambing season!
David said “I love helping Graham out with the sheep, especially during lambing season when I get to help the new lambs be born. In the summer, Graham and I are going to start working on my garden allotment.”
What do you love to do?
“I enjoy spending time with my care team and going out for meals with them. I also love attending the Warriors’ discos, which are hosted by my local rugby team. I help with the cooked breakfast on Saturdays and the Sunday dinner with the support of my team.”
Can you tell us about your rugby experience?
“I enjoy playing rugby and am a member of the Llanelli Warriors; we train once a week and then play a game against lots of other teams every weekend. My position is prop which I really enjoy.”
David also told us about his upcoming rugby trip, where he mentioned the new opportunities rugby has brought him: “In June, I am going with the team on tour to Spain, which will be my first time travelling abroad, I’m so excited to spend time with my mates and meet the other teams.”
What achievements do you feel proud of?
Both David and his care team are incredibly proud of everything he has achieved since moving into the farm.
My rugby:
Rugby is one of David’s passions. He loves playing in regular matches and being a valued member of his team. He says “I am proud of being able to play for the Warriors and if I can’t play, I always support them.”
My work:
“I’m also proud that I now go to a local voluntary group twice a week without the support of my team. When I’m there, I either help with jobs for the community or help cook lunch for everyone.” David has played a vital part in helping the community, where he helps grow vegetables for local community boxes and paints wooden fences for the local schools.
My family:
David and his care team have worked together to help him grow and nourish a relationship with his daughter. He says, “I’m proud of my daughter, and how the team has helped me to be a good dad for her.”
What are your goals for the future?
“In the future, I would like to be able to spend more time with my daughter, including taking her on holiday on my own. I would also like to get a place of my own and a job.”
To find out more about our services or to make a referral, please contact: referrals@choicecaregroup.com
