Theo’s journey to emotional wellbeing

When Theo* first arrived at Priory Laburnum House, he was dealing with significant anxiety and stress, along with a need for a sensory-friendly environment to help manage overwhelming emotions. At the time, a tent in the garden served as a personal retreat, offering a place to escape when things became too much. However, it quickly became clear that this temporary solution wasn’t enough. A more permanent and comfortable setup was needed to truly support his emotional wellbeing.

In collaboration with Theo’s parents, the team at Laburnum began creating a space that would belong entirely to him. After thoughtful discussion, his parents purchased a shed for the back garden, creating an area dedicated solely to Theo. The team worked closely with him to design and personalise it, making sure it met his emotional needs and gave him a sense of control and ownership.

The result was a hideaway - a space that truly reflects who Theo is. The shed was painted light blue, his favourite colour, with a personalised house name proudly displayed above the door. Inside, it’s warm and inviting, with a fold-up sofa, soft lighting, wooden-effect flooring, shelving, magazine racks, coat hooks and a personal portrait. It’s a familiar, calming environment where he can relax and self-regulate during times of stress.

This personalised approach to care has made a significant difference. Having a dedicated safe space has not only helped Theo manage anxiety, but also supported his growing independence. He played an active role in decorating and organising the shed, allowing him to express his preferences and take ownership of his environment.

Since moving to Laburnum, his progress has been clear. Emotional regulation has improved, and he is better equipped to manage stress and anxiety. Both his parents and the staff have noticed a positive shift in mood and behaviour. He is thriving in his new surroundings.

Looking ahead, Theo’s goal is to continue building independence and emotional resilience. The success of the hideaway marks the beginning of that journey, and the team at Laburnum is committed to supporting him every step of the way.

The creation of this personal space stands as a testament to the power of individualised care, collaborative teamwork and the importance of giving people the space they need to truly feel at home.

Hear from James Whatley, Site Manager

At Laburnum House, our mission is to empower individuals to reach their full potential and lead fulfilling lives. We provide comprehensive, person-centred support that helps individuals engage in a wide range of activities, participate in household tasks, maintain and nurture relationships with loved ones, and integrate into their local communities. We work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams, including Speech and Language Therapists (SALT), Physiotherapists, Social Workers, and other health professionals, to create positive and meaningful outcomes tailored to the needs of each individual.

Our approach prioritizes the development of personal skills and the pursuit of individual interests, ensuring that each person is supported in achieving their personal goals. By fostering an environment that encourages growth and independence, we ensure that individuals can take pride in their home and feel secure in knowing they are supported by a proactive and dedicated team.

We also work to ensure individuals have access to the appropriate healthcare pathways, connecting them with necessary services to maintain and improve their health and well-being. Through this holistic, team-based approach, we are committed to delivering the highest quality support and care to those we serve.

*Name has been changed to protect identity