VIP has had a significant impact on Laura and her family’s lives.

Laura is described by her family as “a lovely, happy girl” who is “friendly, sociable, outgoing, kind and very sensitive.” She is very active and “wants to be on the go all the time,” enjoying a wide range of activities including the gym, dance class, yoga, shopping, cinema trips and meeting up with friends. Her mum, Debbie, says she now has “a big circle of friends” and loves going out for meals and socialising.

While Laura is very capable in many areas – she can dress herself, wash herself, make her packed lunch and take part in life skills, she also needs support to stay safe and access the community. Debbie says, “She needs care 24/7 and wouldn’t like to be left on her own in the house. She is supported throughout the day, including transport to and from VIP and her part time job at Booths Supermarket. Debbie describes her as, “quite independent, but someone who still relies on consistent support and routine.”

Before VIP

Before Laura attended VIP, Laura’s family faced a difficult transition after she left education. Following college and a period supported by a personal assistant, the family found themselves really struggling when support changed unexpectedly. Debbie explained, “It was a challenging time, as we were trying to balance work and Laura’s need for structured, meaningful days.

Since attending VIP, the impact has been transformative. Debbie said, “VIP has been the best thing that ever happened for Laura and also the best thing that ever happened for us as a family.” She continued, “Laura has blossomed, gaining confidence, independence and developed new friendships.”

Laura said, “The staff are supportive and they show a lot of encouragement, they are very happy and very caring. Also they are very respectful and very polite. Also they are trusting and thoughtful, also they are very friendly, very kind and pleasant to me.”

Laura particularly enjoys drama, which she didn’t access initially. Since increasing her attendance from two to three days, she has been able to take part in this activity, along with yoga, which she also loves. Debbie said, “The staff at VIP went above and beyond to help her to access these activities, I can’t praise them enough.”

For Laura’s Family

For Laura’s family, VIP provides peace of mind. Debbie says, “Knowing Laura is happy and fully cared for gives us comfort. We know she loves it because she comes home and says, ‘I’ve had a lovely day today.’”

They also value the wider impact on family life, saying it has given them “time for us” and the chance to enjoy everyday moments again. As they summarise simply: “If she’s happy, we’re happy.”