Volunteering, losing weight, and holiday plans: how Alma’s thriving at our Bedford residential service!
After moving into her own flat, Alma has discovered a renewed sense of purpose: enjoying a life filled with personal goals, making friends - and starting her very first job.
Alma is in her forties. She’s supported by Lifeways at our Larchwood House residential service in Bedford.
When Registered Manager Sara Morgan took up the role at the service two years ago, she soon noticed that Alma needed more opportunities to learn new skills.
So, Sara helped Alma move to a flat within the service, which is home to two other women and four men.
“Now, she's got a whole flat to herself,” said Sara. “She's got her own bedroom, her own living area.”
Watch Alma's video to get a greater insight into her daily life and goals!
With her own independent living space, Alma was soon supported to cook and clean for herself. Alma also likes to entertain. One evening a week, she has a film night with one of her support workers, usually watching - in Sara’s words – “soppy films.”
Since settling into her flat, Alma has gained a stronger sense of independence – and the confidence to spend more time outside and try new things.
Caption: Alma's proud of her flat - and makes sure her favourite Disney character, Stitch, is fairly represented.
Giving back
Every Monday and Saturday, Alma volunteers at her local charity shop, steaming, tagging, and hanging the donated clothes. “It’s my first job I’ve done,” said Alma. “I like putting the clothes on the hangers.”
Sara’s team supported Alma to apply for the role at the charity shop, and she has found work there to be a great way to meet new people. “She's got very good relationships with all the staff that work there,” said Sara. “So she's made new friends.”
Alma has also used her role at the charity shop to help with her hobby: collecting stuffed Stitch toys to put in her flat.
Her passion for Stich led her to travel to Disneyland Paris with a support worker to meet the mischievous cartoon character in person. "I’ve got a picture of me when we went to Disneyland Paris with me and Stitch,” Alma recalls.
Holiday fun
Alma’s a huge fan of holidays, which she makes sure to take regularly. She’s been to Butlins with her sister. “I really like Butlins, that’s why I’m wearing a [Butlins] jumper,” Alma said.
Caption: Alma in her bedroom. 'I've got a bedcover [of Stitch].' she says. 'I've got a Stitch picture of me when we went to Disneyland Paris (top right)'
At the time of this interview, Alma was planning a separate seaside trip with one of her support team members, where she’ll go on rides and play on the coin pusher machines.
Alma also makes sure to go to church every week, “without fail,” according to Sara, and has a network of friends there too. She also visits her mum, who lives in her hometown, Luton, a 15-minute train ride away.
Back at home, Alma’s current goal is losing weight. She’s swapped sugary drinks for diet alternatives – “I lost three pounds,” she says - and for exercise, enjoys brisk walks outside, or on her running machine.”
Caption: Alma on her running machine. 'I've lost three pounds,' she says.
Power hour
Alma receives one hour of support per day, delivered by her support team. Due to Alma’s growing independence, the support hour is now used “more effectively,” said Sara.
Now, instead of support with basic tasks, Alma’s support hour often involves catching up. And before she started volunteering at the charity shop, her support team members assisted her with applying for the role.
Due to safeguarding considerations, Alma’s support workers regularly accompany her when she’s out and about – but Alma enjoys their company. And while Alma enjoys more independence, her close bond with her support team provides comfort.
“When I feel sad, I talk to staff about it,” she said. “Then they talk to me, saying you’ll be alright, and I feel better then.”
Sara is proud of her team’s work to help Alma find a happier, more goal-centred life. “She's got a broader skill set now,” said Sara. “She can do a lot more for herself.”
Thank you for sharing your inspiring story, Alma!
About Larchwood House:
Larchwood House is a residential service in Bedford. At the service, people with learning disabilities, autism and other complex needs are empowered to live as independently as possible, to become integral members of the community and to achieve their goals and aspirations through individual care pathways.
The detached house consists of five apartments, two living rooms and a laundry room. Each of the five apartments has one bedroom, an open-plan kitchen, dining room and living room, and a bathroom.
About Lifeways:
Lifeways is the UK’s largest team of support professionals providing support for adults in the community.
We support adults with diverse and complex needs, including learning disabilities, autism, physical disabilities, acquired brain injuries, and mental health conditions.
Lifeways delivers support across three divisions: supported living, residential and mental health services.
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