Valley House's Commitment to Disability Support
Valley House's Commitment to Disability SupportAt Valley House, we believe that everyone deserves access to safe and supportive housing, regardless of their individual needs. We are deeply committed to providing comprehensive and personalized support to service users with disabilities, going above and beyond to ensure their comfort, well-being, and independence. Our approach is centered on understanding each person's unique circumstances and adapting our services to meet those specific needs.
Tailored Communication and Support:
We understand that communication is key to providing effective support. As one recent example demonstrates, our team worked closely with a deaf service user, CM, adapting our methods to ensure seamless communication and personalized care. This involved:
- Alternative Communication Methods: Recognizing that phone calls were not accessible, we utilized text messages and WhatsApp for all non-face-to-face communication. While WhatsApp video calls offered some benefit, the inherent delays weren't ideal. This highlights our commitment to exploring all available options and finding the best fit for the individual.
- Extended Visit Times: Safe and well visits and casework sessions were allocated significantly more time (at least 45 minutes and 2 hours respectively) to accommodate face-to-face communication, ensure CM had ample opportunity to process information, and confirm she felt heard and understood.
- Proactive Scheduling and Arrival Communication: To avoid missed visits, we established a system of pre-arranged visit times and clear communication about arrival, recognizing that CM might not hear the doorbell or knocks.
- Assisted Phone Calls and Webchat Empowerment: When webchat wasn't an option, we facilitated phone calls with professionals and agencies, using speakerphone and relaying information to CM to ensure she didn't miss crucial details. We also empowered CM to utilize webchat platforms with other agencies, fostering her independence.
- On-Call System Adaptation: Our on-call system was modified to accommodate CM's needs. On-call staff saved her mobile number, and a simple "ring and hang up" system was implemented, followed by a text message exchange to initiate communication.
- Face-to-Face Communication Priority: Recognizing the importance of lip reading, we prioritized face-to-face communication, ensuring CM could see our faces clearly. This often meant adjusting our own communication habits and being mindful of her visual cues.
Beyond Communication:
Our commitment to disability support extends beyond communication adjustments. We take a holistic approach, considering all aspects of a service user's life. This includes:
- Accessible Accommodation: We source appropriate accommodation based on individual needs. For example, we have utilized Acorn Court for wheelchair users due to its single-level design.
- Occupational Health Referrals and Adaptations: We make referrals to Occupational Health and arrange for necessary aids, such as bath seats, bath rails, and ramps, to be fitted.
- Assistive Technology: We have fitted flashing doorbells for deaf service users to ensure they are aware of visitors.
- Referrals to Specialist Agencies: We connect service users with relevant agencies, including Occupational Health, Adult Social Care, and health nurses, to address specific medical and support needs.
- Support with Essential Tasks: For those unable to shop independently, we provide support with online grocery shopping.
- Signposting to Other Services: We connect service users with other appropriate support services in the community.
At Valley House, we don't just provide accommodation; we provide a supportive and empowering environment where individuals with disabilities can thrive. Our personalized approach, commitment to accessibility, and dedication to going the extra mile ensure that every service user receives the support they need to live a fulfilling and independent life.
