Ricky's story
Learn about Ricky's transition from his family home to Priory Ridgecott.
Ricky is autistic and has a learning disability. Before coming to live at Priory Ridgecott, Ricky lived at his family home and was supported by his parents.
Learn how Priory supported Ricky to successfully transition into his new home, and find out about the outcomes he has achieved since then.
We had to make a very difficult decision last year to let Rick leave home. It had never crossed our minds; like most carers, we thought we would look after Rick until we were not here anymore. Eventually the time comes when you realise you cannot do it forever. Ricky had become increasingly bored and frustrated at home, especially during lockdown, which was difficult to cope with. After my illness last year, it was a wake-up call and made us realise we had to let Rick go.
Supporting a successful transition
Given this would be Ricky’s first time living away from his family home, the management team at Ridgecott knew that a detailed transition plan would be essential. Throughout the assessment and transition period, they worked closely with Ricky’s parents and spent time at the family home. This helped them develop a better understanding of Ricky and his support needs, as well as build strong working relationships.
Ricky’s new support team at Ridgecott knew he would need a lot of support to adjust to this significant change in his life. Ahead of the move, they developed comprehensive care and support plans. They also sought input from Priory’s positive behaviour support (PBS) practitioner, to ensure the plans were person-centred and bespoke to Ricky’s individual needs.
Settling in at Ridgecott
At first, Ricky understandably felt unsettled in his new environment. However, he quickly settled in at Ridgecott, and has been supported to develop a regular routine. Ricky’s support team use communication tools with him, enabling him to make his needs and wishes clear. He has already developed confidence within the home and is able to approach staff members when he requires support.
When we visited Ridgecott, we were very impressed with the home and the lovely staff. I feared however, Rick might prove to be too much as he can be a handful at times. We thought he may become agitated and upset with all the changes in his life. As usual, Rick surprised everyone by settling in really quickly in his new surroundings. The staff genuinely like him, with his mischievous behaviour, wicked sense of humour and dirty laugh.
Ricky engages well with a range of recreational activities, which he is supported to choose. This includes activities within the home as well as regular visits out to the local community. He particularly enjoys swimming, going for walks, and attending weekly discos and social clubs.
The support team at Ridgecott take proactive measures to meet Ricky’s sensory needs. They offer a variety of sensory-based activities, and always ensure there is a quiet space available for when Ricky needs it.
Ricky’s family are still very involved in his care, and he enjoys regular contact with them. In addition, his team at Ridgecott help him keep in touch with his brother, who lives abroad, by facilitating regular video calls. The family and everyone at Ridgecott are very proud of how well he has adjusted to his new environment and look forward to seeing him continue to thrive.
We were worried and apprehensive at first, as he lived with us for 40 years, but we could not be happier with the level of care and affection Ricky receives at his new home. We do think Ricky is happy and did need to move home, in honesty, as we could no longer fulfil his needs. Thank you to the team at Ridgecott, from the bottom of our hearts.