Achievements

We are committed to supporting young people for as long as it takes to help them make positive changes in their lives, so they can achieve their full potential.

Daniel's story

Daniel has complex needs, visual impairment and communication difficulties. He joined Penhurst School in March 1998 and has faced many medical challenges, including major surgery to assist with his posture. Daniel still needs medical services on a regular basis and our specialist nursing team ensure his continuing care.

Daniel and his family knew that he would continue to need expert individual healthcare, further learning, therapy and residential care to meet his high dependency needs. The placement would also have to be within easy reach for his family to maintain contact.

Redwood House provides Daniel with expert healthcare, continuing learning opportunities and therapies (including hydrotherapy, physiotherapy, speech and language, occupational and music therapies), all within a safe environment that promotes independent person-centred living.

Suada's story

Suada is a young Muslim woman who came with her family from Somalia several years ago. In addition to her profound multiple learning difficulties and disability, Suada suffered a stroke prior to arriving at Penhurst and often found it difficult to communicate her wishes and needs, which sometimes resulted in self-harming behaviour.

Through working closely with the local disabilities team, which included clinical psychologists, strategies were developed and put in place to help Suada to manage her behaviour positively and express herself more clearly. This has increased Suada's ability to participate in social, leisure and learning opportunities, make a positive contribution and form meaningful relationships. Suada has regained skills (especially in communication and mobility), and can now communicate better, swim independently and walk in a walking frame.