Nicole is a young woman who loves to have fun, to dance, to play.
There was a time in Nicole’s* life when she could do none of these things. She was cared for in long-stay hospital, far away from friends and family. Her life and activities were restricted. She felt lost.
Because of this, Nicole would often self-harm, or behave in ways that were harmful to others as well as herself. This behaviour was her coping mechanism.
In April 2022, Nicole began her journey with MacIntyre. Following a long period of assessment, transition and preparation, she moved into her own house in her hometown, close to her family. MacIntyre provides a full staff team dedicated to her individual needs.
It was not an easy start. During her first five months with us, Nicole continued to behave in ways that were harmful to herself and others. She took a long time to believe that her life really was changing for the better.
MacIntyre drew on many specialist resources that helped Nicole begin to trust us. The team includes our own Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) and Best Practice specialists, the Salford Learning Disability Team, Nicole’s Social Worker and Signalong Foundation Tutor, and of course Nicole’s regular staff team.
Now nearly a year since Nicole moved in, her life is so much more fulfilling and positive. Her behaviours of concern have almost completely stopped. It’s rare for her to have a ‘bad’ day and when she does, our staff are there to support without her needing to self-harm.
Nicole likes spending time in her garden, and going out for drives. She enjoys walks on the beach, in the park and spending time with her family, who are just around the corner.
She loves people, parties and celebrations of any sort. Halloween, Christmas, Valentine’s – you name it and we’ll help Nicole celebrate it in style!
Nicole’s life is so much better now than even a year ago, and this is just the beginning!
*The name of the person has been changed
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