Finding your forever home, meet Gordon

Gordon came to Ivers nearly 2 years ago. He had become increasingly unhappy at his previous home that had led to increasingly physical and vocal behaviours that required increased team member support. As part of the search for a new home, Gordon came for a day trip to Ivers. He joined in with the activities we had going on that day and enjoyed playing pool, arts & crafts and meeting the animals.

When Gordon first joined us he had 2-1 daytime care and his own waking night staff member, something we were keen to reduce over time.

First steps

Gordon settled quite well and this was helped by a full team effort including people from his previous home, the Achieve together PBS team and senior leaders who were keen to make this work for Gordon. We made sure to understand Gordon’s likes and dislikes and any potential triggers so that we could eliminate them. We focussed on what Gordon loved to do and this included music, singing, dancing and talking about sport, football in particular! Gordon soon became part of the Iver’s Family.

Ongoing support

Gordon continues to enjoy living at Ivers and can often be found singing at any time of the day. He loves to help team members and his friends that live here and reacts really well to being praised for his participation and assistance. He’s always the first to ask how you are when we have visitors. Gordon is supported to stay in touch with his family who regularly visit him at Ivers and he also visits them closer to their homes.

He attends the local day centre twice a week and the Sunday church service in the nearby village. As a result of the success Gordon has had at Ivers, his support has reduced to 1-1 during the day and he now shares a waking night support with another person that lives here.

Gordon’s progress

Gordon is now well and truly part of the Ivers family. The reduced support means that Gordon is now fully engaged in the activities taking part at Ivers and enjoys joining us on day trips and outings to local towns and villages. You can tell from his expressions when he is enjoying activities and his levels of engagement show he’s feeling good and positive.

Previously Gordon would have to move home every 2 years, but we’re pleased to say that he is currently very settled and happy at Ivers and we hope that this will be his forever home.