We considered supporting Louis to leave the building 10mins before the alarm, but we were concerned about how he would react if the alarm went off for real.
Helen, a member of staff, sat down with Louis and chatted with him to try and discover a better way of supporting him. Having worked with him for the last year she already had some information and knew what football team he supported and the music he liked.
They talked about his worries concerning the noise of the alarm and together they came up with an idea. They created cards of all his favourite things so that when the alarm went off, he could stand with staff and look and talk about his pictures. Louis could keep the pictures in his work apron in case the alarm went off with out warning.
This had an impact straight away and Louis became calmer over the next few weeks as he used his cards. He even used them when we had to evacuate without notice.
This week we informed Louis in advance that the alarm was going to be tested and he said “Today I would like to try it without my support cards”
When the alarm went off staff stood close by to ensure he was ok and to give him lots of praise. I’m delighted to say he coped really well.
This was a really great achievement for Louis and he is now coming to work smiling. It just goes to show the importance of being creative and working with the person to find a solution. I’m so pleased Helen worked in this way.
Hayley Barker
Senior Learning Support Worker