This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.
Meet Laurence
In 2013, we supported Laurence in his move from a residential college – where he had lived for several years – to his first home, a bungalow in Cannock.
Laurence shares this home with Emily and Jo, two friends of a similar age, who also have learning disabilities. Support Worker Julie says: “Laurence is the man of the house. He does like to look after all the girls and the female staff.”
Like any young adult, Laurence values his independence and the ability to be responsible for his own life choices. Julie says: “We’re just here to be in the background. We keep instilling in them: this is your home, this is your choice. We’re just here to support that choice.”
Working as a team, Laurence first discussed with his friends which bedrooms each of them would occupy. He then chose the furniture he wanted and decided how his room would be decorated, including wallpaper in his favourite colours, black and silver.
Affinity Trust provides regular support to Laurence and his friends, but he has control over his own specific support, choosing how it works and what he does on his own or with friends.
Independence
Laurence has built up a strong relationship with his support team, who help him with everyday living. Julie says: “They have their own home, they pay their own bills, they look after themselves and each other. That gives them a great feeling of independence.”
Laurence has started to pursue some new interests including, before the pandemic struck, attending local dance classes. He enjoys learning new dance moves and spends time perfecting these at home.
Away from home, Laurence has work placements (currently suspended) at:
-
Norton Canes Community Centre, where he helps support the older service users, including making them drinks
-
Huntington Rugby Club, where he helps with the raffle, bingo and other games
-
New Life, a charity based in Cannock for disabled children
-
Pear Tree Lane, an Affinity Trust residential home in Wolverhampton.
Laurence – who has a sign saying ‘Big Boss’ on his bedroom door – says: “I like being my own boss.”