LS's journey at Conquest Lodge
Read how LS has regained her independence and confidence, and how she is now thriving.
LS, a resident at Conquest Lodge, has made impressive progress in overcoming a period of withdrawal and reduced independence, supported by a dedicated care team. Since her move, she’s been rebuilding confidence, engaging with daily routines, and rediscovering enjoyment in life.
Background and presentation
LS moved to Conquest Lodge following a period of increasing withdrawal and reduced independence. She has a complex clinical profile, including asthma, dementia, Down syndrome, a learning disability and osteoporosis . Prior to her admission, LS was living in her own home with 24-hour carer support in place.
In the months leading up to her move, LS had become increasingly isolated and disengaged from everyday life. She had not left her home for four months, despite consistent efforts from her support team to encourage her to do so. There was no clear trigger for this change, but it resulted in a noticeable decline in her wellbeing. Personal care routines had reduced, with LS avoiding showers and preferring a basic ‘tap wash’. Nail care had not been completed for some time, and her diet was extremely limited, consisting of the same meals each day, alongside apple and blackcurrant fruit shoots. LS also refused to wear outdoor footwear, choosing slippers regardless of weather conditions.
Assessment and transition
The transition into Conquest Lodge was arranged at pace to ensure LS received the right support at the right time. The team worked closely with her social worker and met LS in her home shortly before the placement was agreed. Although LS was not aware in advance that she would be moving, she responded positively to the visit, appearing relaxed, welcoming and pleased to meet new people. The placement was agreed on the same day, with LS moving into Conquest Lodge the following day.
On arrival, LS presented as excitable and inquisitive, keen to explore her new surroundings. Her aunt ensured all of LS’s belongings were delivered in advance, allowing staff to prepare her bedroom with familiar items and personal touches. This helped create a sense of continuity and reassurance. Staff also introduced activities LS enjoyed, such as colouring, to support a calm and positive first experience of her new home.
Tailored care and early progress
From the outset, LS required significant encouragement with personal care, meal preparation and daily routines. Her aunt provided a comprehensive folder containing medical correspondence, appointment history and family information. This enabled the team to develop a detailed, person-centred care plan that reflected LS’s needs, preferences and communication style.
Within the first two weeks, positive change was evident. LS began showering regularly with support, tried new meals and accessed the local community with one-to-one staff. These early achievements helped build trust, confidence and a sense of routine.
Building independence and community engagement
Since moving to Conquest Lodge, LS has continued to make meaningful and sustained progress. She now showers daily with support, engages positively with nail care and podiatry appointments, and enjoys a wide and balanced diet. LS regularly accesses the community and has taken part in activities including bowling, ice skating, cinema visits, meals out and attending a local church group.
Within the home, LS is actively involved in activities she is passionate about, including singing, dancing, colouring and reading. She independently purchased a karaoke machine, which she uses frequently during parties and informal sing-alongs with staff and peers. Her enthusiasm for performance has been further encouraged through regular dance sessions using online ‘Just Dance’ videos, which she now requests almost daily.
Outcomes and future goals
Feedback from LS’s family and professionals has been overwhelmingly positive. Her aunt shared: “RS and I enjoyed seeing LS on Saturday morning. We both thought she looked well and happy. She was dressed lovely, her hair looked really nice and she had lovely clear skin, so a big thank you to all the staff for your ongoing care.”
Looking ahead, LS has clear aspirations, including going on holiday, such as a Butlin’s 80s weekend, and attending live entertainment events. With continued structured and compassionate support, LS is developing greater independence, confidence and enjoyment of daily life within a safe, supportive and enabling environment.