Jenny has been supported by Leicester outreach for several years but this was a new venture. She previously shared a flat supported by another company but Jenny is now a tenant renting her own house.
My first couple of shadow shifts were eye openers. I’m an experienced member of staff, but this was very different for me. The shifts were led by Jenny who dictated what happened and when. Even although Jenny needs 24 hour support she is in complete control of that support: it’s on her terms. Staff are expected to sit quietly until Jenny needs help with something. Jenny initiated all interactions and staff were able to responded instantly.
Jenny communicates by signing and finger spelling. I always thought my signing was ‘ok’ but after observing Jenny I realised I need to improve and very quickly, because Jenny signs so fast – it’s a case of blink and you missed it.
The staff really impressed me because even although they appeared relaxed and in the background they were clearly using their observation skills as they were very quick to recognise if Jenny was getting anxious and were able to respond and reassure her before she became upset.
I watched as Jenny prepared and cooked a lasagne for her dinner, all made with fresh ingredients. Her staff moved forward when she asked for help and moved back again when she did not. Jenny kept stopping what she was doing to have a conversation with staff, all done with signing and finger spelling.
Then Jenny focused on me and I thought ‘ok this is when it all goes pear- shaped’. Jenny spelt my name out and luckily I understood and responded appropriately - what a relief that I didn’t let her down.
I learnt such a lot from Jenny in the short time I supported her and I know that I improved in some of my facilitation skills and widened my experience of providing support.
Debbie Grange
Senior Practitioner
Leicester