At Wingrave in House 2, live five young people one of whom is James who is a 15 year old bubbly, affectionate and lively young man. When James was much younger he was more shy and solitary, would hide away from others under blankets or coats where he felt safe and struggle significantly with over sensory stimulation from noise and crowds. Over time and with consistent work from all staff observing his behaviour and reflecting on what works best for him James has gained confidence in all aspects of his day to day life. By using the facilitation skills in each interaction with James especially eye contact, warmth, positioning, reflection and observation this has helped him build trust with staff and given him the confidence to initiate interactions with people he knows well. His favourite interactions are placing his hands out, palm facing up to touch fingertips or placing his elbow out to touch elbows. James also has a sensory diet in place to help support him as sometimes too much interaction can over stimulate him, making him anxious however staff supporting James have reflected on this and know when to interact and when to position themselves to give him a little space and time until he is ready. Having built confidence this has enabled James to communicate more positively with staff by showing them what he wants either by taking them to an item or using an object of reference. It has also enabled him to access some more activities such as shopping at slightly busier times, going to restaurants and even enjoying a weekend trip to the seaside, which included going to the clubhouse disco and the rides at the busy pier. This was the first time James had stayed away from Wingrave; that was not at home with his Mum. Staff continue to support James daily with his interactions and are trying to increase his communication skills. They are now looking forward to supporting him on a four day trip to the Calvert Trust in the Spring. Fay Prattley Frontline manager Wingrave School |
6 Comments
Catherine
22/2/2016 02:31:24 am
That is really great - it is always good to reflect on how much young people have achieved. Well done
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Tess Marshall
22/2/2016 02:42:31 am
Fay, great to hear about this progress, lovely when young people build confidence in this way.
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Leander McFadden
22/2/2016 03:17:56 am
Hello Fay - thank you for sharing this - it sounds like James has been supported to take small steps to be able too increase his trust, confidence and sensitivity to his surroundings.
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Shauneen
22/2/2016 03:21:21 am
It is wonderful to see James blossom and achieve. Well done to all the staff team- you are truly amazing! Thank you Fay!
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Emma Killick
22/2/2016 04:42:14 am
Hi Fay - what a wonderful picture of James by the seaside - it's brilliant that with the support of all at Wingrave he was confident enough to have a weekend away and now he's planning another trip.
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Claire Bailey
22/2/2016 08:50:54 am
Great work. Go James!
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