Growing confidence and independence

Justin has autism and has to be able to see a purpose and an aim for everything he does, otherwise he will not do it. For example he would not go out to enjoy a walk, the activity would require having a reason to go and do something.

Through creating his person centred plan, Justin, his support network and Surrey Choices colleagues identified ways to help him develop skills which will enable him to take part in community activities, to increase his independence.

Justin can become very anxious whilst out in the community particularly when he has to queue or if the transport he is waiting for is delayed. Moving into a community based support setting is a huge step for Justin but he is eager to challenge himself and achieve his goals.

He has been taking small yet significant steps which has helped him to become much more confident in himself. Justin has been going walking regularly and is walking further each time he goes out. As his activities must have a purpose, Activity Facilitator, Peta Hayden suggested that Justin could write his Mum a postcard about his day and could walk to the post box which was further than his usual walk.

“We gave Justin a purpose for his task by posting the card, which gave him an incentive to want to go out. He is also planning to go to the local garage in future to get himself a hot chocolate. Justin was proud that he had posted the card and that his Mum was pleased to receive it. He is now more enthusiastic about walking a little further on each walk. In time we are hoping, as his confidence builds, we can then work towards him being able to attend one of the activities that he has identified in his Person Centred Plan such as going to the leisure centre, swimming, bowling, doing his shopping and using his local library again with his friends.” – Becki Mitchell, Activity Facilitator