The individuals we support from Liberty Court, our supported living service for adults in Surrey, have recently started volunteering at two of our residential services for adults with learning disabilities and autism, Foxley Lane and Mayfield Road.

The initiative, led by team supervisor Timmy, provides the individuals we support at Liberty Court with the opportunity to build their confidence and independence while supporting one another.

Many of the individuals we support at Liberty Court can manage day-to-day activities independently, including cooking and personal care, with staff nearby to provide light supervision when needed.

Weekly Visits Filled with Purpose

Each week, Timmy supports two volunteers at the services. They alternate between Foxley Lane and Mayfield Road, visiting one service every fortnight.

During their visits, they help prepare fruit smoothies for everyone, tailoring the experience to everyone’s needs. Some individuals drink from glasses, others use straws, and one individual prefers a bottle. With guidance from staff, they are supported in understanding and meeting these varying preferences, helping to promote dignity and choice respectfully and safely.

A Chance to Learn and Connect

As the Deputy Manager at Liberty Court, Gayathri Gangireddy explains, “We support the Liberty Court volunteers by explaining each resident’s needs, who needs what kind of help, who can drink independently, and who needs more support. I supervise them closely to make sure it’s all done safely.”

But it’s not just about smoothies. Each visit often turns into smoothie parties, with everyone joining in for a dance to music, thereby creating a joyful atmosphere that brings the whole service together.

Looking Ahead

The collaboration between Liberty Court and our residential services has now been running for several weeks, and it has been a huge success so far. Staff and the individuals we support alike are looking forward to more visits, more learning, and more shared joy.