Harini is a determined young woman with cerebral palsy who arrived at her own self-contained flat at Woodland Court — our specialist supported living service in Caterham, Surrey — transitioning through young adulthood and on a journey to gain greater independence, develop life skills, apply her recently completed education in the real-world, and find new friends.
As a wheelchair user, Harini requires assistance with various daily tasks, such as personal care, cooking, and daily cleaning. Upon arrival, the dedicated team quickly recognised Harini’s ambition and worked with her to create a bespoke support plan that includes regular sessions with an occupational therapist to maintain and improve Harini’s mobility with her walking frame and by doing specific exercises.
Our holistic approach to care is completely tailored to Harini’s needs, preferences, and aspirations — and encourages her to push her own boundaries. The adaptive environment at Woodland Court plays a crucial role for Harini and helps to improve her skills and quality of life. For instance, adjustable counters can be lowered and moved to Harini’s level so she can wash her dishes independently and put her laundry in the washing machine.
The communal living aspect is especially enjoyable for Harini as she likes to keep busy with meaningful activities and participating in trips that we organise, and Harini loves to spend time with other residents. One of the most impressive achievements of Harini’s time at Woodland Court so far has been her success in entering the workforce. With the help of our team and assistance from the job centre, Harini’s determination and ability to collaborate has already paid off, as she has already completed three rewarding job placements, including as a receptionist and as an assistant at the gift shop at Caterham Dene Hospital.
Surrounded by purpose-built facilities and supported through our person-centred approach, Harini has successfully embraced a new chapter in her life, safe in the knowledge that 24-hour care and opportunities for growth are available. Our aim is to empower tenants to live their best lives, so it is great to hear what Harini thinks about how we help her and what Woodland Court means to her: “It is a very nice place — staff support me, and they teach me how to become more independent, which makes me happy.”
Harini’s story demonstrates how personalised care, adaptive facilities, and encouragement to pursue goals, can provide a winning combination in nurturing individualism and self-reliance. We are pleased to provide Harini with the supportive environment she needs at Woodland Court, and it is wonderful to see Harini’s confidence grow each day. We look forward to supporting Harini as she learns new skills and experiences new environments, with the aim to create a brighter future for herself.
For more information about Woodland Court, please visit their webpage.
