Understanding and being understood: Sean's story
Sean moved into Ridgeway House in August 2024. The team at Ridgeway House have worked alongside Sean to make sure he is being supported in the best way possible, whilst being understood and seen. The Ridgeway House team are extremely proud of Sean and the progress he has made.
Taking the time to listen to Sean, involve him in decisions, and support him in ways that are meaningful to him has led to positive progress and achievements, highlighting the importance of one of the key pillars in our model of support – understanding and being understood. Sean is a clear example of how this has helped him thrive with Choice.
Life at Ridgeway House
Since moving in, Sean has built his confidence and found a love for cooking. Now, he enjoys cooking meals for others at Ridgeway House. Sean has also taken on the role of Fire Marshal within the home, which has helped reduce his anxiety around the fire alarm by helping everyone at Ridgeway House during fire drills. When we asked Sean what he thought about his new home, he said, “Everyone here is very helpful and supportive. Whenever I need something, they are always there for me.”
Becoming a Fire Marshal
“I find the job very easy. I plan where a potential fire could be and have pictures of them. When the alarm goes off, I get the grab bag and make sure everyone leaves out of the right door. When it is safe, I let everyone back in. Afterwards, I have a meeting with everyone and discuss what went well and what could go better next time. Before taking on this role, the fire alarms would really scare me. I would freeze and feel anxious. Now that I am Fire Marshal, I feel less anxious and enjoy taking on a leadership role to help everyone at Ridgeway House.”
The importance of being understood
“Sarah, the manager, asked if I would like to become a fire marshal to reduce my anxiety around fire alarms and to help stop me from freezing when I hear one. I really liked this idea and thought it would really help when I got anxious. I agreed, and was then given a Hi-Viz jacket, which I put on when the alarm goes off. Now, I no longer freeze and instead put my ear defenders on to help with the noise of the alarm which has helped me feel less anxious.”
What I love most about my life now
“I love gaming in the home but also love getting out and about. I like going shopping for snacks, going to the pub and bowling. We have recently gone on some day trips to the aquarium and museum, which I really enjoyed. I also enjoy playing games in the home with everyone, which I used to be nervous about – my favourite is board games!”
Achieving my goals
“I am very proud of my Fire Marshal role and how it has helped me feel more confident. I also love cooking, and I’m proud that I can cook for others in the home. On Sunday, I cooked a roast dinner with my team and also helped with the last Christmas dinner.”
Looking forward to my future
“In the future, I would like to return to my hometown – but I wish I could pick up Ridgeway House and everyone in it and take them back with me.”
Sean’s journey at Ridgeway House highlights the success of the people we support with a team who listen and encourage. Through understanding and being understood, Sean has gained confidence, discovered new passions, and made great achievements.
To make a referral, contact referrals@choicecaregroup.com
