People we work with
Profile on Simon
Simon moved into a Voyage service following a brain haemorrhage which was caused by drug and alcohol abuse. Simon had high anxiety levels, low self esteem, low confidence and impaired memory skills, and used inappropriate language.
Simon’s transition to his new home was a gradual process. To offer Simon the security he required, a structured weekly planner was created, which gave him control over his day and meant he always knew what was going to happen next. One of Simon’s first goals was to participate in one external activity per day; this helped Simon to find his way around the local area and build his confidence when talking to new people. Over time this goal developed to include group activities.
Simon became more confident when interacting with other people and this steadily had an effect on Simon’s use of language. After monitoring episodes of inappropriate language and the environment where this behaviour was displayed, it was noted that there was a direct link between Simon’s anxiety levels and this behaviour. As his anxiety reduced, so did the behaviour. Simon would still become anxious at times but he began to recognise and manage his own anxiety levels, which was huge accomplishment.
Simon began to keep a diary; he had never kept one before and initially did not see the need. However staff supported Simon to write down what he had been doing each day, together with his feelings. Simon eventually started to use the diary without any supervision and still keeps one today to record what he has done and plan appointments and events in the future.
Staff supported Simon to find a voluntary job at a local charity shop. His role involved dealing with members of the public, offering advice to others and following policies and procedures. At first a member of staff supported Simon at work but after six weeks he began to attend his work placement on his own, then meet staff later to have a cup of coffee and discuss any issues. Simon enjoyed this job and worked three days a week for over six months.
Simon had good cooking and daily living skills when he moved into the service and these were developed by shopping, menu planning and creating a budget plan for his disposable income and for food shopping.
Simon was supported by staff during his transition back to his home town. This involved weekly visits and meetings with the local Headway group to ensure Simon was given the best possible opportunities to network and be part of the local community. Staff also supported Simon to transfer his voluntary job, with a good reference from his current employer, to give him a positive start in his new workplace.
Simon currently lives in his own bungalow and the local authority provides a domiciliary support package. Simon attends a Headway group three times a week and works at his voluntary job three times a week.
The individual's name has been changed to protect their privacy.