‘I feel I’m becoming more independent:’ How Kirsty moved from her mum and dad’s house to a Lifeways supported living service
For Kirsty, moving to her own place from her mum and dad’s house was a big step – and she was nervous at first. But now she’s settled in, she’s delighted with her new home.
Back in January, Kirsty was one of the first people to move to St Thomas House, a new Lifeways supported living service in North Walsham, Norfolk.
Kirsty has her own self-contained apartment at St Thomas House, which contains a total of 16 apartments. She enjoys both independence and support when she needs it, delivered by an on-site Support Team.
“I am really happy here and love my flat,” says Kirsty. “The staff are very friendly and are always there to help when I need it.”
‘My confidence is growing’
Each apartment at St Thomas House contains a spacious open plan kitchen and dining room, and a large bathroom. The supported living service also contains a shared garden for people who live there to enjoy.
“I feel I'm becoming more independent and my confidence is growing,” says Kirsty.
Currently, St Thomas House is home to six other young individuals – and Kirsty’s already formed some firm friendships.
“I have made some lovely friends with the girls I live next to,” she adds.
Right now, Kirsty says she’s looking forward to summer so she can grow vegetables, socialise in the garden, and hold barbecues.
‘Much-needed step’
St Thomas House’s manager, Tristan Wilton, says many people at the service – Kirsty included – have thrived with the independence and support on offer.
"It’s great to see young people we support at the service take that much-needed step into their own apartments and the life of independence they crave.”
To see seven young people move in and to notice the difference life at the service has made to them and their families’ lives has been “a joy,” says Tristan.
“Myself and my team are very excited for the future.”
About Lifeways:
Lifeways is the UK’s largest team of support professionals providing support for adults in the community. 11,000 colleagues work with us to support almost 5,000 individuals who live in our 1,500 supported living and residential services across England, Scotland, and Wales.
Find out more about how we change people's lives at: www.lifeways.co.uk
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