The door bell went and the outreach member of staff arrived: Rebecca Palphramand. Staff explained to Rebecca that Caroline was still in bed and was reluctant to get up. Rebecca just smiled and started to make her way upstairs. Part way up she began to call Caroline’s name. She didn’t shout but spoke softly with just enough volume for Caroline to hear. I was upstairs and saw how Caroline responded. She smiled at Rebecca’s calling of her name and sat up.
Rebecca knocked on the bedroom door and waited for Caroline to invite her in. Caroline tapped the edge of the bed indicating where Rebecca was to sit.
Rebecca sat down as indicated and once she had Caroline’s full attention she showed Caroline what she had brought with her. Rebecca is always well equipped with different and interesting activities to offer Caroline. Rebecca listened carefully to Caroline, showing enthusiasm and explaining what the different activities were. This did take some time but the happy chatter continued and Rebecca ensured that Caroline had the opportunity to make an informed choice.
As I was now in the office I could hear the conversation, the laughing and reassurance from Rebecca and the encouragement in her tone of voice. This facilitative approach really met Caroline’s needs and the assurance of having a great day out.
This may sound like an every day occurrence to some people, but to Caroline it was HUGE. We endeavour to be as facilitative as Rebecca everyday.
Fra Barnes
Head of Service
Hubbard Close, Bedfordshire