Nicholas is a supported individual from our Willow Tree Lodge home, and has previously experienced periods of behaviour concerns. These behaviours were often linked to the surrounding environment, such as noise, clutter or changes he found difficult to
Working closely with Nicholas, his parents, support workers and healthcare professionals developed a tailored support plan to help reduce his anxieties and give him greater control of his surroundings. One of the key steps in the plan was to make structural adjustments to his room to simulate a calmer and safer environment. For example, in 2018, Nicholas’s en-suite was fitted with a simplified toilet and sink to help reduce potential risks while also promoting independence. Over time, with the use of Low Arousal and the Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) strategies, Nicholas became noticeably more settled, his confidence grew, and the team gradually introduced small positive changes to his space. Nicholas has positively responded to the small changes.
Building on this success and following consultation with Nicholas, his family, the PBS and Support teams, a new goal was set to replace his temporary toilet and sink with a more standard homely toilet and sink. The team believed that this would help support Nicholas’s plan to improve his confidence and enhance his quality of life.
To take control of his surroundings, Nicholas was fully involved in the process from the outset. He was shown a variety of different options and chose his preferred style. An easy-read guide was also created to help him understand what the changes would look like and to prepare him for installation day, all of which he responded to with excitement.
On the installation day, Nicholas was calm, patient and cooperative while the work was completed. Since then, he has adjusted well to the new setup and continued to use it confidently and independently.
Everyone is incredibly happy with the progress Nicholas has made. His journey reflects how consistent support, collaboration, and person-led planning can make a real difference to their confidence, independence, and overall quality of life.
