At Achieve together, we believe that every person deserves a safe, stable, and supportive environment, no matter the circumstances. When an emergency placement arose, our team’s ‘we can’ attitude ensured that the person requiring support was moved in quickly and safely, providing immediate stability before transitioning to a more permanent home.
Responding to an urgent need
One afternoon, a referral came in for an emergency placement from Cardiff. The person support faced immediate homelessness, and the team knew that urgent action was required. Despite having successfully transitioned another person earlier that same day, the team quickly mobilised to find a safe and suitable place for him to stay. After thoughtful discussions and collaboration with social workers, it was agreed that supported living in Gwent would be the best temporary home.
With the house unoccupied at the time, it provided a quiet space where the person supported could settle in without disruption. The team worked closely with internal specialists and the social worker to coordinate every detail, ensuring a smooth and stress-free move.
A team that goes the extra mile
The support team immediately sprang into action. The lead PBS practitioner, Nikol, demonstrated outstanding dedication, even coming in on her day off to help coordinate the move. She ensured that essential items, such as food and toiletries, were in place before the person arrived, helping to create a welcoming environment.
When the person arrived, the team stayed well into the evening, making sure he was comfortable, had his needs met, and felt reassured in his new surroundings. Nikol remained on-site for additional hours, providing continuous support to ease the transition. Recognising his love for open spaces and gardening, she creatively introduced potted plants to compensate for the absence of a garden, ensuring he could still engage in an activity he enjoyed. Her shared interest in mechanics also helped establish an instant rapport, further helping him settle in.
Overcoming challenges with a ‘we can’ attitude
An emergency placement always comes with uncertainties, and this was no exception. The team had limited information about the person’s past experiences and specific needs. Instead of focusing on potential barriers, they prioritised his strengths and future possibilities. They tackled each challenge head-on, ensuring he had access to meaningful activities and structured routines to build his independence.
Key obstacles included:
- Financial management: The team worked closely with his mother to create a clear and simple budget plan, helping him gain confidence in managing his own money.
- Navigating a new environment: Initially hesitant to leave the house, he was supported with visual guides and maps, gradually helping him feel comfortable exploring the local area and doing his own shopping.
- Long-distance travel: When he needed to attend a significant event in West Wales, the team came together to plan his journey, ensuring he arrived safely and confidently – a major achievement for him.
- Transitioning from a children’s home setting: Many team members had only supported younger individuals before, but they adapted quickly, embracing a proactive, positive mindset that ensured the individual received the right level of support.
A successful transition to independence
Over three months at our supported living in Gwent home, the person supported made remarkable progress. Through patience, encouragement, and structured support, he developed essential life skills and built strong relationships with the team, his family, and his social worker. By the time he moved into his new supported living home in Cardiff, he was more independent, confident, and ready to take on new challenges.
His transition was seamless, thanks to the foundation laid at supported living in Gwent. Now, he continues to thrive – pursuing college, engaging in social activities, and taking charge of his daily life. The impact of the swift and supportive placement has been life-changing, proving that with the right mindset and commitment, anything is possible.
The power of ‘we can’
This success story highlights the unwavering dedication of Achieve together’s teams. From the moment they received the emergency referral to the day he successfully transitioned to our supported living home in Cardiff, their ‘we can’ attitude was evident. No challenge was too big, no detail too small – every effort was made to ensure a positive outcome.
At Achieve together, we don’t just provide support; we empower people to achieve their goals and live fulfilling lives. This story is a testament to the incredible difference our teams make every day.
