David and his late wife Karen originally lived in the community. Suffering with learning disabilities and health problems linked to alcohol they failed to manage in this setting and David was targeted by neighbours and assaulted.
Following this David and Karen moved to Aspen Gardens where they lived together with a package of care and support. Karen later passed away and David was supported through this difficult time and continues to live at Aspen Gardens. He maintains an independent life and has support from staff.
Before moving into Supported Housing David was vulnerable. ‘The area was rough and they weren’t nice people who lived there.’ He and his wife struggled with self neglect and David was targeted by neighbours. David is now happy in his own tenancy. He maintains his independence and is able to come and go as he wishes but still has support there when needed and people who visit regularly and look out for his best interests. He feels part of the community and enjoys helping out around the site and getting involved in the social activities.
David said this about supported housing – ‘It means I can go where I want to go, and do what I want to do, and be independent but I know, if I need some help, I can ask the staff in the office and they will help me. Or when my support worker or carer comes to visit me I can ask them. Nicola ( my support worker) helps me with my letters and my hearing aids. I like it at Aspen Gardens, I don’t want to move from here.’
