We’ll soon be holding a birthday party at a local pub for John, one of our service users. That may not sound unusual, but on this occasion it is. John has been in our care for over 20 years and has rarely chosen to go out. He has learning disabilities and complex needs and he presented with very challenging and aggressive behaviour when he first came to us.

John has also achieved another major milestone – taking his first ever holiday when he went to the seaside town of Skegness in Lincolnshire for four days. He was supported by Selina, a review co-ordinator at The Richardson Partnership for Care, with whom he has a great rapport.

It has taken years of hard work and consistent support from our trans-disciplinary team of therapists and our care support workers to enable John to develop his confidence and control his behaviour in order to take this huge step. To help him experience and enjoy the holiday as much as possible, it was booked at short notice. He chose where he went and who he wanted to accompany and support him. During the holiday he was in full control of what he did.

Dr Mick Clarke, a close family member of John said: “John is having the best care he has ever received and your professional and devoted work with him has enabled him to grow in confidence and become a happy man.”

“Selina’s total commitment to him has supported him to the extent that he has finally been able to go on holiday. Your team at the Richardson Partnership for Care has allowed him to blossom into the lovely caring man that was always there.”

“Your plans for him over the years to withdraw drug therapy and support John through specialist behaviour plans has meant he is becoming more socially skilled and a joy to be with. Going on holiday has meant John’s confidence has moved to another level.”

The holiday was such a success that he has requested to go back again next year as well as choosing to celebrate his birthday with a party at an external venue. This story demonstrates that consistent care and support, while providing opportunities for social integration and decision-making can lead to increasing fulfilment and autonomy. Sometimes this is a very gradual process.