John is a person we support at Bramshaw House and has faced significant challenges since the COVID-19 pandemic. Tragically, he lost someone very close to him just before the pandemic, followed by the loss of another family member more recently. These experiences have understandably affected his emotional well-being and willingness to engage socially.

Although John often expresses a desire to attend more social events and meet new people, he frequently finds it difficult to follow through when the time comes. This pattern has been recognised by the team as a protective response rather than a lack of interest.

Building Confidence Through Shared Interests

Over the years, the Bramshaw team have worked closely with John to identify activities aligned with his interests that could gently support his Social Engagement Journey with Liaise. These have included trips to Eastbourne to watch tennis matches, visits to Beaulieu, explorations of Tangmere Museum, and a holiday at a cottage near Portsmouth.

While these experiences did not immediately expand John’s social circle, they played an important role in rebuilding his confidence in public and social settings, laying the foundations for future engagement.

A Meaningful Step Forward at the Model Railway Club

When the team first suggested a visit to the Model Railway Club, John initially declined. The team recognised that this activity closely matched his interests and offered a genuine opportunity to connect with others who shared them.

Karen, Bramshaw House’s Registered Home Manager, took time to revisit the idea with John, talking through the event in detail. While he showed interest, it was clear there were concerns holding him back.

To help John feel more in control, he was encouraged to plan the day himself. This included deciding who would accompany him, what he wanted to do while there, and his preferences around snacks, drinks and transport. John shared that he would like support from a specific staff member and preferred to travel in the house vehicle.

Karen carefully listened to his concerns and liaised with the staff member, who was more than happy to support John. The visit was a real success, and John is now looking forward to attending again with renewed enthusiasm and confidence.

Creating More Opportunities for Social Connection

Alongside the Model Railway Club, Mencap offers a range of social events. The Bramshaw team are actively exploring ways to support the people we support to attend as many of these opportunities as they choose.

Their shared aim is to create an environment where John and others can form meaningful connections, feel socially confident and enjoy fuller, more connected lives.

Linking to Our Outcomes Pathway Tool

John’s journey reflects steady progress across several areas of our Outcomes Pathway Tool, particularly around rebuilding confidence, routine and social connection following significant loss.

• Mental Health: John has experienced bereavement and long-term emotional challenges. Gentle planning, reassurance and pacing activities have supported his emotional well-being and helped reduce anxiety around social situations.
• Feeling Good: Taking part in activities linked to John’s interests, such as the Model Railway Club, has helped him feel more positive and motivated, giving him something to look forward to and enjoy.
• Relationships: Attending interest-based groups has created opportunities for John to meet new people in environments that feel familiar and safe, supporting the development of meaningful social connections.
• How You Spend Your Time: Exploring events, trips and clubs has helped John build a more varied routine, offering purposeful activities beyond the home that reflect his preferences.
• Growing Independence: By planning the day himself, choosing who to go with and how to travel, John played an active role in decisions, supporting his confidence and independence when accessing the community.