“ Thomas , thank you for letting us get to know you ”
“ Thomas came to live with us in 2013 ,” writes Sandra Whittington , Service Manager at Wilbury Gardens , Hove . He ’ d be found wandering around London . Thomas often went ‘ missing ’ like this : he ’ d walk for miles and be unable to find his way home . And when he was home , people in his area took advantage of his vulnerability and exploited him financially . His local authority became increasingly worried about his safety and wellbeing .
Thomas found communal living very hard at first . Thomas is profoundly deaf and could only communicate through aggressive swearing gestures and sounds . He certainly didn ’ t trust the staff ; understandably , he was suspicious of why people were taking an interest in him .
Things began to improve as our team skilfully and consistently provided one-to-one support , putting Thomas at the centre of his care . Gradually , we built up a trusting , positive relationship as Thomas began to realise we really did have his best intentions at heart and that life was getting better .
“ I ’ ve witnessed a transformation . Once withdrawn , with little confidence and no communication skills , Thomas is now a larger-than-life character – with a wicked sense of humour . We ’ re immensely proud of his progress . We want to thank him for letting us get to know him , and provide the support that ’ s allowed him to flourish .”
Sandra Whittington , Service Manager at Wilbury Gardens
As time went on , Thomas felt more ‘ at home ’: he started to explore the local community ; first with staff , then on his own . We had to make sure that he was safe – and maintain his rights and dignity . Thomas worked with us to find a practical solution : a discreet GPS alerting device which allows us to assist ‘ remotely ’ if he gets lost or has any difficulties . Soon , Thomas was venturing out every day .
He began to develop his signing skills and , generally , express himself . He built a rapport with others we support . He took on jobs and got involved in activities .
Three years on and Thomas is at the centre of everything we do . And he has a really brilliant relationship with his linkworker , Ste . They had a great time in Butlins last year . Isle of Wight , here they come !