In January Natural Breaks held an information day for parents and carers who still have family members who live at home and were interested in knowing more about Supported Living.  Natural Breaks put the day together in direct response to enquiries for information and support from a number of families with relatives currently supported within Natural Breaks Social & Learning Service, who want to plan for the future of their family member but were not entirely sure of where to begin.

The day began with our CEO Diane Hesketh welcoming everyone and acknowledging that for many parents and carers thinking about the future and people moving into their own homes can be a daunting experience.  Diane explained that the intention of the session was to be of assistance in helping people to be as informed as possible about supporting their family member to move on, whether the time is now, or whether in the near future.

After Diane had introduced the day, our Service Managers explained what Supported Living means, what it entails and also how to start the process when the time comes.  We arranged for Emily Littlehales from Celtic Law to come along and talk about Court of Protection, Lasting Power of Attorney and other things that might be useful for families to know.  Asif Bax from Halo Housing also came along on the day and explained the responsibilities of the Housing Association in Supported Living arrangements.  

We had 13 families come along, listen and ask questions and it was a really successful day. 

The feedback from those families who attended was really positive, with some wonderful comments: 

‘This session was really informative and as parents of a young adult with L/D it has pathed the way for when I need to make this big decision a little more copeable. The day was presented in a very caring and understanding way.  I had no knowledge before so I am going away with a lot of very helpful information.  Thank you so much for this opportunity.  I am going away with a little better feeling for when it comes to making which will be one of the most difficult decisions I will have to make.  It was good to know you all are caring, lovely people who want the best as we do for our loved one’. 

‘Today was excellent and really helped me for future planning.  The speakers were all brilliant and patient and it was the right content delivered well.  I’ve learnt that future planning is really important.  I’ve learned also that Supported Living may be the right way in the future and when the time comes I will be equipped to know what to do’. 

Diane said “We’d like to thank everyone who came along on the day and if you would like to know more then call one of our Service Managers on 0151 207 9120.  I’d also like to thank Emily from Celtic Law and Asif from Halo Housing for coming along and speaking on the day.”