It has always been our philosophy to respect each of our service user’s individuality and actively support them in making decisions, with the aim of increasing their autonomy. These can be everyday choices or bigger decisions such as the choice of a holiday destination.

This summer, two of our service users with learning disabilities had a holiday at Billing Aquadrome, a local holiday park. It may not be everyone’s choice, but it is popular with our service users because of the wide range of activities available from fairground rides and pubs to fishing or quiet strolls around the lake.

The service users remain in control of their holiday by choosing from a range of destinations as well as choosing the support staff that they would like to accompany them. Some people require two carers to ensure that they can experience and enjoy a supported holiday to meet their needs and wishes.

Some individuals prefer to go somewhere familiar and others need more localised holidays to ensure that their physical and health needs can be met. Having a holiday closer to home also means that additional support workers are available, should they be needed.

Wherever our service users choose to go on holiday, we support them in their decision and respect their individual choice. Naturally, their holiday is very important to them and enhances their quality of life.