My advocacy partner has been in his new home for just over two months now, and I’m pleased to say he is settling in really well.
My first visit to his flat was …only two weeks after he had moved in, and so it was still all very new to him, and indeed for his support staff. What is so nice to notice is that he feels content with having a staff member in the house with him at all times, including a sleepover. For further reassurance the flat directly above his is the “staff” flat/office, which I have already familiarised myself with to ensure I know who’s who in case of any issues.
His support seems to be well structured with meal plans and activities, from what I hear he is already getting out and about more than he did when he lived at the hospital.
I was pleased to go along to a recent summer barbecue social at the Dunfermline Advocacy office, at which the organisation was also officially presented with its certificate and crystal for the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service. I encouraged the support staff to bring my partner along, which they did, and he certainly seemed to enjoy the occasion.
Next time I visit him I will be taking my Chocolate Labrador, Fudge, along too. He’s never met her and I am sure he will enjoy it, as he used to love the visits by two Red Setters with Therapet when at the hospital.
By Phil Corrie-Hawes
