Potens are delighted to announce the opening of a new supported living bungalow in Derrygonnelly, Northern Ireland, which has been specifically designed for three individuals transitioning from residential care and into their own home.
The new service was officially opened at the end of January by Arlene Foster – Former First Minister of Northern Ireland, and is a joint partnership between Independent Care Provider Potens and the Western Trust – working together to develop a tailor made and bespoke property for three individuals with learning disabilities and other complex needs.
Potens Area Manager, Deane McMorris, explains: “The bungalow has been specifically designed around the needs of the people being supported. One of the first individuals to move in was Lawrence who has been living in residential services for 28 years and now is a tenant in his own home.”
Over the past few years Lawrence’s mobility has been declining, resulting in several falls, so the team at Potens have been working with him to look at alternative options as part of his person centred planning.
“Lawrence doesn’t like using the stair lift at the service but we were increasingly concerned for his safety. We wanted to find a solution that would meet Lawrence’s environmental needs but still allow him to be independent.”
In response Potens worked in partnership with the Western Trust, local Advocacy services and Lawrence’s solicitors to explore options for Lawrence to move into his own home where his long term needs could be better met.
Deane explains: “The bungalow has been designed so that each person has their own en-suite facilities, designing level access throughout the bungalow. We have been able to really personalise the environment to each tenant’s needs – creating a unique and bespoke property for them.”
Lawrence is living with Tom and Melanie, who has also transitioned from Drumary House residential service, and into their own home as a key part of their pathway to independence. Lawrence and Tom moved in together on the same day with Melanie moving in the following day.
The smaller, quieter, environment that has been adapted to suit the very specific mobility and health needs of the three individuals is what will make this service such a success.” Adds Deane.
Congratulations to the three individuals on their new home and we look forward to catching up with them later in the year!
Photo:
Lawrence Balfour and Tommy Hemphill are enjoying their first few weeks in their own tenancy
