Developing confidence and independence through person-centred support

When Paul first arrived at Station Road, he frequently displayed behaviours that could be challenging, including episodes of aggression. Over the years, the team have provided consistent, person-centred support, built trusting relationships with Paul, and engaged with him regularly to understand his needs, feelings, and preferences.

A person-centred approach

This consistent approach has contributed to significant positive changes in Paul’s presentation and behaviour. Paul is now more confident in communicating with staff about how he is feeling and is increasingly able to express his needs and concerns in a way that can be understood and responded to promptly. This progress reflects the importance of consistent relationships, personalised support, and ongoing engagement in promoting Paul’s emotional wellbeing and quality of life.

The staff team worked closely with a Psychiatrist, the GP, Paul and his family, to understand Paul’s individual needs, preferences, and triggers. Through consistent support, meaningful engagement, and positive relationships, Paul has been encouraged to develop greater confidence in expressing his feelings and interacting with others. Over time, this has supported significant progress in his emotional wellbeing, social connections, and ability to maintain positive relationships within the home and wider community.

Promoting independence and confidence

Paul has developed a high level of independence across many areas of his daily life. He regularly accesses the community independently and takes an active role in a wide range of activities that reflect his interests, friendships, and personal choices. These include:

• • Cycling

• • Basketball

• • Volleyball

• • singing in a choir

• • karaoke

Paul participates in preparing meals and continues to develop his cooking skills. He is keen to learn and benefits from opportunities to take part in practical activities that promote his independence and confidence.

Paul is actively involved in promoting inclusion and the voice of people with learning disabilities. He is currently a member of the Learning Disability Council Board at One-to-One Enfield, an organisation that works to promote inclusion and participation for people with learning disabilities and autistic adults. Through his role, Paul contributes to important initiatives, including co-production projects, where his experiences and views help inform discussions and developments that affect people with learning disabilities.

Paul also values his faith and maintains an active connection with his local Catholic community. He is a member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Palmers Green, where he serves as an altar boy. His involvement in church activities is an important part of his identity, social life, and personal wellbeing.

Future plans

Paul would like to continue making a positive contribution through his work with One-to-One Enfield, where he values having opportunities to share his views, contribute to co-production, and support the inclusion of people with learning disabilities and autistic adults.

Paul would also like to continue developing his cooking skills within the home and build greater confidence and independence when preparing meals. Staff will continue to work alongside Paul in a person-centred way, providing encouragement, guidance, and practical support to help him achieve his goals, develop his skills, and maintain his independence.