Nestled in the heart of Leicester, Lester Hall Apartments is a specialist mental health pathway residential home that provides a safe and practical setting for individuals with a primary diagnosis of mental health and associated complex needs.
With a focus on fostering greater independence, the service empowers individuals to improve and maintain essential life skills, such as meal preparation, independent laundry, community engagement, and social inclusion.
The dedicated team at Lester Hall Apartments undergoes robust in-house training to address the intricate mental health and forensic needs of the individuals they support. This comprehensive approach enables the team to provide a therapeutic environment that facilitates each individual’s journey towards recovery.
The service is well-equipped to support emergency admissions, with rooms allocated to meet the unique needs of each individual. The recently renovated grounds feature gated areas, self-contained apartments, and communal spaces such as activity rooms, training kitchens, and lounges. The laundry room is also easily accessible.
In addition to internal clinical support services, including Positive Behavioural Supports (PBS), Lester Hall Apartments boasts an In-House Activity Coordinator, ensuring that every individual has access to a range of stimulating activities and opportunities for socialization.
One of the standout features of Lester Hall Apartments is its bespoke environments, designed with anti-ligature specifications to provide a safe and secure setting for those who require it.
But what truly sets Lester Hall Apartments apart is its commitment to empowering individuals to achieve their goals.
Lester hall apartments facilities include:
Sensory room with in house entertainment facilities such as Xbox, Netflix, pool table and more
Activity laundry room
Therapy kitchen
In-house activity coordinator
Independent and group activity sessions
Days out, trips and holidays
Gym
Felix, the support cat
Internal therapy support services
“Lester Hall Apartments really is a home from home. The service is warm and the supporting staff so welcoming. There is never a day in Lester Hall Apartments where the people we support aren’t trying new things and developing their skills.”
Ebony State, Referrals and Partnership Manager
MB
Take MB’s story as an example. With the support of Lester Hall Apartments, she achieved her ultimate goal of going on holiday overseas after working towards smaller goals, such as accessing public transportation and visiting busier places. Her most recent accomplishment? Enjoying her first UK holiday to Skegness! This significant achievement has paved the way for her next goal: a holiday out of the country.
RS
Another success story is RS’s journey with social anxiety. With encouragement and determination, he gradually overcame his fears, starting with small steps like visiting the local shop and eventually taking the bus to the city centre. The support team at Lester Hall Apartments was instrumental in his progress.
In addition to these remarkable stories, Lester Hall Apartments also hosted a BBQ event to kick off summer, complete with a bouncy castle and face paint station assisted by one of the people we support. The perfect opportunity for everyone involved – including commissioners, families, and individuals supported by the service – to come together and have some fun in the sun.
“Thank you to everybody who visited, and to for those who supported in the organising, setting up and preparation. We had so much fun. We absolutely cannot wait to do it all again next yea!”
Charlie Potter, Residential Home Manager.
At Lester Hall Apartments, it’s clear that every individual is valued and supported in their unique journey towards recovery. By providing a safe and nurturing environment, combined with robust training and expert care by the incredible and highly experienced support team, this exceptional service is empowering individuals to overcome their challenges and thrive to #DoAmazingEveryday
For information regarding vacancies please contact referrals@ibchealthcare.co.uk
JB’s Pursuit: Wainwright Challenge
Embarking on his extraordinary journey of the Wainwright Challenge.
JB, who has a diagnosis of severe Autism, has challenged himself on a quest that demands immense physical stamina and determination. This ambitious endeavour involves climbing all 214 Wainwright peaks in the Lake District. This journey which is not just about reaching the summits, but also about the meticulous planning and dedicated support that have been pivotal to his progress.
Team members at Tarry Hill organised three-day trips and one multi-day trip to the Lakes. Key member Stacey Green, played an essential role of organising transportation by picking both of them up from agreed locations. This support allowed JB to focus entirely on the climbs without worrying about transportation.
A dedicated routine which is crucial for JB’s daily well-being.
Since August 2022, Artur Karwat has been supporting JB independently. This transition allowed them to streamline preparations for the challenge. The waking day begins at 6am, followed with a well-established morning routine. This predictable routine helps JB stay calm and focused, allowing him to accomplish more walking distance when it is time to face the challenge. Supporting JB has developed a closer interpersonal relationship where they can both work towards successfully achieving JB’s goal. Recently, Calum Brennan, the shift leader expressed interest in supporting JB by taking him on occasional day trips to the Lakes. This additional support is invaluable, bringing fresh energy and encouragement to JB’s journey.
During these trips, JB faces these with a calm approach similar to what we would call holiday mode. It has been emphasised by support staff at Tarry Hill of the importance of daily walks, which has become a crucial part of JB’s routine.
In April 2024 alone, JB climbed Harter Fell, Hard Knott, Great Borne, Starling Dodd, and Red Pike. Following on with the longest and most difficult day of hiking. With a distance of over 17 Kilometres, he climbed 6 wainwright Fells that day: Pillar, Red Pike, Scoat Fell, Steeple, Haycock and Caw Fell.
JB used to experience high levels of anxiety, physical aggression, and restlessness. Walking has been a therapeutic activity for James, significantly improving his well-being and behaviour.
JB’s Stepdad
JB has already completed 97 of the 214 fells in less than three years. This accomplishment is significant, especially considering the challenges of severe autism.
JB’s achievements extend beyond the Wainwright Challenge. He has crossed Spain on foot and completed several renowned routes in the UK. These include the Coast to Coast, Pennine Way, and West Highland Way. He recently began the Peak District Boundary Walk, a 190-mile route that he tackles through circular walks, making the total distance around 400 miles.
Support staff at Tarry Hill have began documenting JB’s progress by using a tracker to pinpoint national and international of his achievements.
JB’s achievements so far
He is currently preparing to take on another peak this month, IBC are behind him to support every step of the way.
As the journey continues, we remain committed to helping JB achieve his goals, one peak at a time.
Artur Karwat
A huge well done to JB, this is a powerful testament to his resilience. Showcasing the incredible milestones that can be achieved through dedication, planning, and a strong support network. And a huge well done to the support staff at Tarry Hill who have continued to work alongside JB and encourage him and his goals, you really do #AmazingEveryday!
Meaningful May
Celebrating Mental Health Awareness Month: iBC’s Commitment to Employee Wellbeing
As we reflect on Mental Health Awareness Month, iBC is proud to reaffirm our commitment to making our workplace a supportive and nurturing environment. The well-being of our colleagues is paramount, and we are dedicated to ensuring that every team member has access to the resources and support they need to thrive both personally and professionally.
This is why we introduced IBC+, by recognising the importance of discussing mental health, and resources are readily available. Our Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) iBC+ is a cornerstone of this commitment. This comprehensive benefits package covers a wide range of personal and work-related challenges, ensuring that help is always within reach.
Caregiving roles can be incredibly stressful and emotionally draining, especially when supporting those with complex needs and challenging behaviour. Prioritising our colleagues mental wellbeing helps ensure that they feel supported, valued, and capable of managing the emotional toll of their work. This leads to better overall well-being, reduced burnout and maintaining our offering of high quality care and opportunities to those we support.
“This observance is a crucial opportunity for us to prioritise conversations, resources, and support around mental health in our workplace and beyond. Mental health matters, and it’s essential to prioritise it.”
Alveera Lakhani, People & Culture Advisor
iBC+ offers free and confidential access to professional counselling 24/7, complemented by the My Healthy Advantage app, which provides wellbeing tools, resources, and trackers.
Services Available Through iBC+:
Counselling and Therapy: Professional counselling services for emotional support and structured therapy sessions.
Legal Information: Guidance on legal matters, including debt management and disputes, that may cause anxiety or distress.
Bereavement Support: Qualified counsellors to help cope with grief and legal advisors for related matters.
Medical Support: Advice on various health-related issues from qualified nurses.
Online CBT: Self-help tools, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy modules, fact sheets, and advice videos.
Confidential Helpline
However, it doesn’t stop there. We understand how other personal issues and worries can be a primary result to effecting someone’s mental health. With iBC+, this supports colleagues in broader aspects of their personal life to ease and uplift their mental health. Here are other ways it supports:
Women’s Wellbeing
iBC stands by you through pregnancy loss and unsuccessful fertility treatments through enhanced bereavement or annual leave, offering free period products, health food shop and pharmacy vouchers to support menopause wellness and HRT prescriptions reimbursement. We also provide enhanced leave allowance for fertility treatments and enhanced maternity payments.
Financial Wellbeing
We focus on your financial health by ensuring you have the resources and support needed to manage your financial wellbeing effectively.
Physical Wellbeing
Our colleagues enjoy daily fruits at work to fuel your body and stay healthy, participate in our Bike to Work Scheme to commute in an eco-friendly and healthy way, and unlock exclusive savings with the Blue Light Card, which offers over 15,000 discounts from online and high street retailers. Additionally, we provide free access to Udemy courses to enhance your skills and learning.
Emotional Wellbeing
We understand the challenges of family bereavement and offer compassionate and enhanced parental bereavement leave to provide the necessary time, space, and support to heal. iBC+ includes compassionate leave, enhanced parental bereavement leave, and payment support for pregnancy loss and unsuccessful fertility treatment. Experience our enhanced paternity payments to support your family stress-free.
Empowering a Supportive Workplace
Our initiatives to foster a happy and supportive workplace are designed to empower all employees to #Doamazingeveryday. By embracing personal journeys and challenges with compassion and understanding, we create an environment where everyone can succeed.
“Our efforts to nurture an understanding and compassionate workplace, supporting life’s ups and downs, reducing stress, and prioritising our colleagues’ mental wellbeing, are in support and advocacy of Mental Health Awareness Month.”
Ebony Staite, Referrals & Partnership Manager
Join the Conversation
Throughout Mental Health Awareness Week, we encourage everyone to engage in conversations about mental health and utilise the resources available. Whether it’s through resources available or simply speaking with a colleague, prioritising mental health helps us all to maintain the amazing work we do. To help initiate this, take a look at the Meaningful May calendar below on ways to improve your own wellness and those around you.
A Future of Wellbeing
As we move forward, iBC remains dedicated to the mental well-being of our team. By prioritizing conversations, providing essential resources, and fostering a supportive environment, we ensure that everyone at iBC can continue to excel and feel valued.
Let’s make Mental Health Awareness week a time of reflection, support, and growth. Together, we can create a workplace where mental health is prioritized, and every colleague feels supported in their journey.
iBC Celebrates 1,000 Employees!
iBC are thrilled to share that we have recently reached a significant achievement of 1,000 employees!
This milestone is testament to everyone’s invaluable contribution particularly over the past 2 years. Whereby, we have been able to extend our offering further afield to support more vulnerable people across the county; presenting many more career opportunities to both new and existing colleagues. It is thanks to all departments that we have been able to create these new career pathways, recruit, train, induct and develop the many talented individuals across iBC today.
Jenny Payne, Chief Operating Officer for iBC Healthcare says:
“As we celebrate the remarkable achievement of reaching 1,000 employees at iBC Healthcare, we recognise that it’s not just a numerical milestone, but a testament to the collective passion of our teams. With each member contributing their unique talents, we continue to redefine the landscape of specialist care. Not only has the growth of IBC welcomed new individuals, but has presented incredible professional development opportunities for existing colleagues, all of which have been extremely deserving.Together, we offer not just support, but the transformative care individuals with complex needs deserve. With every meaningful interaction, iBC colleagues continue toenhance people’s lives, offer the bestpossible opportunities and#doamazingeveryday.“
What truly sets iBC Healthcare apart is our collective commitment to our shared values. Every colleague within iBC, from SLT members and local managers to support staff and administrators, work collaboratively towards realising our mission and upholding our core principles.
Over the last year we have made significant commitments to colleagues such as paying the “Real Living Wage”, the roll out of iBC + and focusing our efforts in ensuring inclusive, happy workspaces.
Harika Thogarcheti, Director of People & Culture says:
“Reaching 1,000 employees is a significant milestone, one I’m proud to have contributed to. When I started as an HR Business Partner, our headcount was 300. Now, just two years later, we stand at 1,000 strong, and I’ve had the privilege of advancing to Director of People & Culture during this period of successful growth. This achievement also speaks volumes about the hard work and dedication of my team and my colleagues unwaveringsupport and collaboration.I’m thrilled about the futureand the continued growthwe will achieve together.”
Jenny Payne now Chief Operating Officer of iBC Healthcare!
iBC are thrilled to announce the appointment of Jenny Payne as COO Chief Operating Officer for iBC Healthcare. 🧡
Jenny joined iBC 2 years ago with a wealth of Commercial and Operational experience in the specialist care sector. Jenny has been at the forefront of iBC’s incredible journey so far and continues to drive the highest standard of bespoke services for the people we support, and a happy working environment for iBC colleagues. We are delighted to share this news!
“As we embark on this new chapter together, I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. I have no doubt that with our collective expertise, creativity, and determination, we will continue to achieve great things and make a meaningful difference in the lives of the people we support.”
As we draw 2023 to a close, we are proud to take a look back at the last 12 months and the impact our journey has had on others 🧡
We truly believe that designing the right environment is half the battle in offering the best possible opportunities in the community, to people with complex care and support needs. These properties, combined with the incredible work from our Operational Teams – enables us to offer the support that people need and deserve, in homes for life. No matter how complex their needs may be 🏡
To make a referral or to hear more about the opportunities iBC offer, please email referrals@ibchealthcare.co.uk.
iBC Long-term Service Awards
iBC recently held a Long-term Service Lunch and Award celebration hosted by Managing Director Brendan Kelly and Director of People and Culture Harika Thogarcheti, to honor all colleagues who have served and supported our services and the people we support for ten years and above. We also thanked Nizam Bata ACCA for his exceptional leadership over the decade.
Thank you to:
Michelle Rushin – 29 Years Tina Marchington – 22 Years Grace Musarurwa – 21 Years Wendy Leslie – 19 Years Rebecca Bond – 18 Years Karen Dowling – 17 Years Paul Millington – 16 Years Kathleen Turner – 15 Years Donna Adams – 15 Years Diana Wallace – 15 Years Elaine Hackett – 14 Years Ana Eaton – 14 Years David Percival – 13 Years Kirsty Edden – 13 Years Rupa Dattani – 11 Years Balbinder Nagara – 10 Years Farida Bata – 10 Years Sarah Way – 10 Years
“We had a total of 240 years of loyalty to iBC Healthcare around the table – which certainly put my 1 year anniversary into perspective! This group have positively impacted the lives of countless people we support, not to mention the mentorship, training and support they’ve given to the hundreds of new colleagues who have joined us during their careers.
A really powerful reminder of the importance of creating a culture that enables people to feel safe, valued and recognised for their hard work and dedication.”
Brendan Kelly, iBC Managing Director
#wedoamazingeveryday
Baby Loss Awareness & Women’s Wellbeing
This week, we are standing in unity with countless families and communities to recognise #BabyLossAwarenessWeek. It’s a time to come together, remember, reflect, and support those touched by the heart-breaking experience of losing a child.
Baby Loss Awareness Week is from the 9th – 15th of October and iBC will wear pink and blue throughout the week to show solidarity. We’re also setting up a “Stars of Remembrance ” wall at our services as a tribute, creating a space for us to remember the babies lost and allowing colleagues to show their support. On 15 October at 7.00pm, we will light a candle for the global wave of light event in support and remembrance.
In conjunction with Baby Loss Awareness Week, iBC have also announced a new employee benefits package supporting our colleagues’ overall health and well-being with a particular focus on women’s well-being. The iBC + benefits package is part of our ongoing efforts to nurture a compassionate and empathetic workspace.
We invite everyone to join the conversation and be a part of these meaningful causes this week. Let’s shine a light on the importance of understanding, support, and unity.
In line of our aims to raise awareness, we have heard from various iBC colleagues, who have shared their journeys with courage and grace, hoping to offer solace to others who have walked the same path.
Kerry’s Story – #BabyLossAwarenessWeek
It’s often the silent stories that hold the deepest emotions. Our colleague has courageously shared an experience that many hesitate to speak about: baby loss. She has shared her journey with courage and grace, hoping to offer solace to others who have walked the same path.
“18th March 2018, the day we woke up and knew something was wrong, our world instantly shattered. Those words “there’s no heartbeat” is something no parent wants to hear.
Then having to tell our two children we wouldn’t be coming home with a baby was heartbreaking.
I felt isolated like we were the only ones going through it.
And then the financial worry, I didn’t qualify for maternity leave with my former employer, and how was I going to navigate time off on SSP? I only had 5 weeks off work.
From my experience, I want to support any women/parents going through loss and let them know, that their feelings are valid and to take each day as it comes. You won’t forget them, but time is a healer!”
Kerry Mannix – Your voice and dedication helped shape our women’s wellbeing initiative on pregnancy loss. Your involvement has made a real difference!
We’ve proudly signed the #miscarriageassociation pregnancy loss pledge, reinforcing our commitment to support during life’s tough moments.
Zainab’s Story #DomesticAbuseAwareness
“No, I’m not a victim.
That’s what I said to myself when I came to understand the definition of what I experienced in my marriage was domestic abuse. But he didn’t hit me – words from almost every victim of non-physical domestic abuse.
This was undoubtedly one of my life’s most challenging chapters and was even more complicated when I was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder. I don’t wear victimhood, that implies something was taken from me. I traded my trauma for wisdom.
The journey of healing isn’t linear; it wasn’t just about mending what’s broken; it was about rediscovering and redefining. This path demanded a new version of me, it was filled with moments of clarity and bouts of uncertainty, discovering deep self-awareness, courage and resilience, refining coping skills and finding meaning in pain.
I kept going no matter the pace with therapy and self-care, in discovering the new word of the range ‘no’, boundaries became invitations not limitations, and glimmers became hope. Because before self-love becomes a liberation it is first a burden. The anger that you were treated poorly and didn’t know to ask for better treatment, the grief for lost time, the isolation and loneliness rebuilding piece by piece the version of me as I stand today beyond surviving; unapologetically thriving.
Providing psychological safety, spotting the signs, and being understanding, supportive and flexible during these turbulent times can provide survivors stability and safety.”
Zainab Sarwar – Your voice and dedication helped shape our women’s wellbeing initiative on providing safety and protection from abuse. We appreciate your meaningful contribution!
We are committed to providing support for employees impacted by domestic abuse by spreading awareness of ways to spot the signs, sharing essential resources, signposting for professional help and providing a flexible, safe, supportive environment.
Sharni’s Story – #NationalFertilityAwareness
“In 2016, I was diagnosed with damaged fallopian tubes. Despite surgery, I was told I couldn’t conceive naturally. This broke me into a million pieces. I faced intense despair, but my husband’s support became my beacon of hope.
Following the diagnosis, I picked myself up, and we opted for IVF. However, just before egg collection at a Nottingham clinic, I was diagnosed with Hydrosalpinx and had to undergo surgery to remove both tubes.
In 2017, our NHS IVF round resulted in a chemical pregnancy. After switching clinics and funding the treatments ourselves, our 3rd attempt in 2018 was unsuccessful. Yet, by late 2018, our 4th attempt, fortune smiled upon us. We welcomed our son in April 2019. now 4 years old and started school this year, we are extremely proud. I am beyond blessed.
We always wanted a sibling for Ruben as he is such a social and kind boy. After an embryo transfer in November 2022, we experienced a heartbreaking loss at 6 ½ weeks, it wasn’t the Christmas we imagined. My husband was amazing and cannot thank him enough for been my absolute rock slash punching bag. We took a little break, but we didn’t want to give up, losing our baby just made us more determined for it to work for us again.
In March 2023, we tried another embryo transfer. Now, I’m 30 weeks pregnant with a girl, but it’s been a rollercoaster — from severe morning sickness to health complications. At 26 weeks, I was diagnosed with gestational diabetes, altering my birth plan. By 29 weeks, I was diagnosed with Prenatal depression.
My husband has been there every step of the way and after everything we are stronger than ever and I couldn’t imagine a better Daddy to our two beautiful babies and our angel baby. Not long till our Rainbow baby is in our arms.”
Sharni Penny – Your voice and dedication helped shape our women’s wellbeing initiative on the fertility journey. Thank you for making an impact!
iBC+ includes support for employees with flexible paid time off during the journey of fertility treatments which helps to prioritise well-being in the path to parenthood
Vanice’s Story – #MenopauseInTheWorkplacePledge
“Being a woman is amazing. I love being me. I am a happy go lucky person, I love life.
However, over the last 6 months my life has changed dramatically having to deal with this newfound enemy that has attached itself to my body in the form of Menopause.
I have often heard people talk about menopause and sometimes I have been in the midst of people who are going through it. I used to smile at them as they were fanning themselves in an ice-cold room. Over the last 6 months that smile has been wiped away from my face as I now face the same struggle.
Going through the menopause is not easy. You have mood swings, you have pains, there even some days when you do not want to get up. There are also hot and cold flushes that constantly ravish your body. So, I am happy and grateful that iBC has now implemented this wellbeing for women who are going through all different issues in their body”
Vanice Ricketts – Your genuine care and dedication helped to shape our women’s well-being initiative on menopause. Your involvement has made a real difference!
We’ve proudly signed the menopause workplace pledge with #wellbeingofwomen, because we recognise menopause is an issue in the workplace and women need support
Shan’s Story – #MenstruationInTheWorkplace
Juggling your duties at work while managing period challenges is a quiet reality for many. Below is a spotlight of an employee’s experience of having open, safe conversations and the challenges of periods amidst work tasks.
“As an employee of IBC, I feel so privileged and appreciated to be a part of a company that cares about my wellbeing. Being a woman and dealing with menstruation, I have faced many challenges. Dealing with everyday tasks and duties, while competing with severe pain, hormones, and mood swings is exhausting. When I feel like curling up into a ball and forgetting everything that’s going on around me, I carry on but am expected not to complain.
In previous times, I felt I could not open up about my emotions and pain. In IBC, I receive a wide range of emotional and wellbeing support from my colleagues I feel supported whenever I need it.”
Shan Reid – Your voice and dedication helped shape our women’s wellbeing initiative on free period products. Your influence has been truly valuable!
We’re offering free period products in the workplace! We believe in empowering women to prioritise their well-being. By providing these essentials, we aim to create an environment where every woman feels valued and supported.
These stories shared by our colleagues, reflecting their personal battles, have touched us deeply. Recognising the profound effects of life’s struggles we’re not just listening – we’re acting. Our commitment to foster change has been exemplified in the launch of the iBC+ benefits package. These have been crafted to offer support during such challenging times, and the positive embrace from our colleagues has been both heartfelt and deeply resonating with our values of empathy and support.
Transforming Care Managers Event
Last week, iBC Healthcare held the first ever managers meeting centred around Transforming Care. With a need now more than ever before for suitable accommodation with specialist care and support, providing individuals with complex needs their home for life.
It is widely recognised that for most autistic people or people with a learning disability, care in an inpatient unit is rarely helpful – in fact, it can be deeply damaging. Wards can be noisy, bright and unpredictable. Without reasonable adjustments to the environment, and support from a professional who understands autism and how to adapt care, it can be overwhelming, particularly if you have profound sensitivity to sound, touch and light. It can increase someone’s level of distress, which can lead to further restrictions and make it even harder to move to support in the community. The average length of stay is around five and a half years. And we continue to hear alarming cases of overmedication, seclusion and unnecessary restraint.
iBC colleagues discussed their pledge and commitment towards the contribution in supporting our five pillars of working in line with the programme and our journey towards this so far.
People we support are offered high quality care and accommodation within their local community wherever possible. Out of county placements are unfortunately very common due to lack of suitable accommodation needs, meaning that families and circles of support often have to travel for hours to see their loved ones. This also prevents Individuals to maintain vital clinical wraparound support from local teams who know them well, contributing significantly to the deterioration of a person’s presentation and lead to placement breakdown, which as we know often then leads to hospital re-admission.
Everything we do is designed to help the individuals we support to succeed and thrive, so they can enjoy everyday life and the freedom and rewards of living in a community environment.
This was a great day and the opportunity proved vital in sharing good practices, knowledge base and creative thinking around how we do and will continue to #achievetheunachieveable.
Managing Director Brendan Kelly said:“It was a genuine privilege to attend our Manager’s Meeting last week; a room full of dedicated, passionate and talented people, all focused on the same goals – to create a great place to work and provide the very best standard of care and support across our Day, Residential and Supported Living Services. I ask my colleagues to #doamazingeveryday – and they do, with enthusiasm, passion and relentless hard work”
#LDWEEK23
This year is all about busting myths about living life with a learning disability.
In support of Mencap and Learning Disability Week 2023, we stand to highlight the incredible things that people with learning disabilities can achieve, breaking barriers associated to the misconception and stigma many people still face every day.
During the last 100 years, there have been substantial changes in the ways people with a Learning Disability are seen and treated. By living with a Learning Disability in the 1950s for example, you will have been “treated” with electric shock therapy, locked away from family and friends, segregated from your community, received behavioural “correction” and subjected to derogatory language we wouldn’t dream of using today. Although times have significantly changed, sadly people are still locked away from their community with limited communication with their circles of support. People are still denied the opportunity to explore their skills, wishes and goals; because these outcomes are often unfairly labelled as unrealistic and due to lack of suitable accommodation and support to safely work towards these achievements.
iBC’s mission is to provide specialist accommodation in local communities, to enable access to crucial wraparound support services and remain close to their circles of support. iBC are passionate about people having the best opportunities regardless of their disabilities. We support people to not only reach their potential, but exceed it – achieving the “unachievable”.
Mencap is a British charity organization that gives advice and practical help to people who have learning difficulties, and their families and carers. Mencap also supports changes in the law that will help these people, and works with the Government and other disability organisations to make sure disabled people’s experiences are reflected in UK policy making. Welcome to our website! | Mencap
Welcome JL!
A referral was made to iBC Healthcare in light of placement breakdown. Unfortunately JL didn’t receive a quality focused service that people deserve.
iBC Healthcare welcomed JL to Orchard Court, a residential service in Leicester in February 2023. Prior to the initial assessment, JL began to enter a low phase of her Bi-polar cycle. Therefore J’s move to Orchard Court needed to be completed promptly. To help stabilise her, and for her to feel safe before this low phase advanced. Within 24 hours of this placement being agreed, Registered Manager Becky White arranged transport and prepared J’s bedroom..
Initially, J’s mood was significantly low and behaviours of concern reflected this in the first few weeks of admission. Orchard Court’s support team dedicated their time to offering J plenty of reassurance. With confidence that J’s true presentation would re-emerge in time. J’s key workers used this time to build the foundations of effective and positive working relationships. Creating a safe space for J in support of her Bi-polar cycle.
Three weeks later, J’s mood gradually began to lift. This was reflected by a much more positive outlook on her new home and support team. With J now back at baseline, Orchard Court colleagues started getting to know J’s likes, interests, goals and wishes. With this consistently patient and supportive approach. It wasn’t long before J was laughing, smiling and her personality really started to shine through. She is now engaging very well with peers and is accessing the local community. And vocalising what she would like to achieve and where she would like to go. Her needs and wishes continue to be met at Orchard Court. Offering as much independence as possible enabling her to live a full and meaningful life.
It’s wonderful to see J enjoying activities and engaging with her peers. IBCs aim is to empower individuals to develop relationships with peers, beyond people who are paid to be in their lives.
Welcome J, and well done to iBC colleagues at Orchard Court!
Welcome PL!
PL was referred to iBC Healthcare Residential Services and upon conducting a robust assessment process. For those who know him well, P moved to Cale House at Tarry Hill in February.
Our residential care facilities are specialist settings. They are carefully designed to provide live-in support for individuals with complex care needs and challenging behaviour. Providing care packages tailored to individual needs and assessments, our support focuses on engagement and inclusion.
Tarry Hill
P was shy and introverted when he first joined us. But with consistent efforts from the support team at Tarry Hill, he has flourished in his new home and is now actively participating with his peers.
He is now engaging well and continues to build positive relationships with those around him. P has contributed to the home’s activities and celebrations, such as Tarry Hill’s Valentine’s Day party. He also recently participated in a cake-baking contest with the support of Senior Support Worker Lori-Anne. Baking a cake from scratch with the opportunity to explore his creativity with cake decorating! P won this competition and peers expressed that this really encouraged P to come out of his shell. Prompting him to enjoy the celebration full with his peers by sharing a slice of his masterpiece!
Tarry Hill boasts a beautiful courtyard, complete with colourful murals and quiet spaces. P is often found here playing football and invites his peers to join him daily! P has recently expressed to his key workers that he enjoys living at Cale House, and is looking forward to partaking in more activities. Such as the upcoming Eurovision Song Contest celebration, where P has offered to help make some decorations for the day! This is a huge achievement for P, as before joining us we assessed him to lack interest in activities, avoid socializing or engaging in daily living tasks.
P baking and decorating a cake at Cale HouseP playing football with peers
iBC are looking forward to seeing P flourish further in Cale House! Welcome P, and well done to our colleagues of Cale House, Tarry Hill.
To make a referral please email referrals@ibchealthcare.co.uk
#wedoamazingeveryday
This is J*
J was referred to iBC Healthcare seeking an emergency placement in February 2023.
J has an extensive history of rough sleeping, poly-drug use, exploitation in the form of cuckooing and placement breakdown. There was a risk that J would experience homelessness and would return to rough sleeping if a suitable placement wasn’t secured.
J has mental health needs and is dependent on illegal substances. In light of this, his experiences increased levels of agitation, auditory hallucinations. And was at significant risk of readmission under the Mental Health Act and committing further criminal offences. He expressed his wishes to engage in a substance recovery pathway. To settle in new accommodation and to feel safe. iBC were identified as able to support these goals and a referral was made to Lester Hall Apartments, in Leicester.
Lester Hall Apartments is a specialist residential home. Supporting individuals with a primary diagnosis of mental health and associated complex needs. Rooms are allocated to meet the needs of the individuals referred to the service. There are a mixture of en-suite bedrooms and self-contained apartments. With extensive in-house training and clinical support (PBS) the service is well-equipped to support emergency admissions
Head of Adult Services Ayaz Lalani visited J in his current placement in Nottingham, to complete an assessment. After meeting J, iBC were happy to offer a placement and J, was equally as happy to accept. Just a few days later, Ayaz Lalani personally travelled back to J’s current placement to collect him. Ayaz and J used this time to get to know one another, stopping for a meal on the way.
J arrived at Lester Hall Apartments and his carefully selected, compatible key workers were there to greet him. Since joining iBC, J has engaged in daily conversations with the local rehabilitation team. He has attended scheduled appointments, and accessed local amenities in Leicester City Centre. He has also enjoyed a pint at the pub with the support of his staff. J says that Lester Hall is a wonderful environment and describes himself as feeling the best he has felt in many years. He is also very much looking forward to starting the local gym in the coming days.
We acknowledge that without the dedication of Ayaz Lalani and our colleagues at Lester Hall Apartments, things could have been be very different for J. We are now keen to see J recover and no doubt flourish with the support of iBC Healthcare as we work in partnership with Nottingham and Leicester services.
#wedoamazingeveryday #partnershipworking
*we have used different initials to protect J’s identity
iBC Residential Care Updates
2023 has been a busy year already for the people we support in residential services across the Midlands. Our residential care facilities are specialist settings that are carefully designed to provide live-in support for individuals with additional needs.
Providing care packages tailored to individual needs and assessments. Our support focuses on engagement, inclusion and iBC are committed to enhancing people’s lives.
The residents of Tarry Hill enjoyed a Valentine’s Party last week! The people we support took part in a cake baking competition, music and a celebration of all things LOVE.
New resident P, joined the service this month and won the cake competition! Staff of Tarry Hill said that this really helped P come out of his shell as the activities of the day encouraged him to socialise with peers and participate fully in celebrations.
Within this service, residents can explore their independence and enhance their everyday living skills whilst residing in a safe, functional, and socially inclusive environment. We take great care in getting to know those we work with, ensuring they are paired with people with similar likes, interests, and an overall positive compatibility.
The Dovecote is a beautiful and serene care home in the heart of Pleasely in Mansfield. Every month, support staff are recognised by their dedication to those we support; this month Kirsty James was nominated by the team as Employee of The Month. Staff said that Kirsty always goes above and beyond to help others and this is reflected in her recent promotion to Senior Support Worker.
Resident, PL won an outstanding achievement certificate for his substantial effort in his NVQ with the Academy Transformation Trust of Further Education. Well done P!
Orchard Court provides 20 specialist residential placements for individuals with varying degrees of learning disability and/or PMLD.
This month MP was supported in the community to carry out some shopping to revamp her bedroom. This was followed by a well-deserved coffee and slice of cake.
RC was supported with a walk to the local shop where he chose to buy a magazine and some snacks to enjoy in the park. RC was prompted by staff to complete his shopping, promoting his independence within the community.
Everything we do is based on enabling opportunity and empowerment in a community setting. Our expert support services focus on nurturing little incremental wins (always aligned to realistic goals) that result in rewarding experiences all round.
Lester Hall Apartments is a specialist residential home for individuals with a primary diagnosis of mental health and associated complex needs. Staff are committed to enabling and empowering individuals, by setting realistic goals that constantly encourage small steps forward – and result in big personal achievements.
Resident JJ, expressed his wishes to go fishing – so a trip to the seaside was planned. Staff supported J to set up his equipment and successfully catch some fish, crab and overall had a brilliant day!
GM went with staff, to the Royal Air Force Museum! The Royal Air Force Museum offers a fun, entertaining day out for all in Cosford, West Midlands. Staff report that G thoroughly enjoyed his day out and it was great to see all the Museum currently has on display.
At IBC, our ethos is to deliver a high quality of care and to think differently. To offer different opportunities that result in different outcomes.Everything we do is designed to help the individuals we support to succeed and thrive, so they can enjoy everyday life and the freedom and rewards of living in a community environment.
Dan Wade smashing it again, delivering brilliant in house training to our newest cohort, who have recently joined the iBC family!
All of our staff teams are trained in CPI Safety Intervention, Autism, bespoke person-centred training, active support, and where needed any further training which are all focused in reducing negative stress, teaching coping strategies, developing primary and secondary prevention strategies, and promoting independence and positive quality of life.
In 2022, iBC Healthcare successfully created 332 job opportunities across the Midlands! Each receiving an inhouse induction, to support in the delivery of our mission …
To provide person centered, specialist care and accommodation, enabling people with complex care needs to live a full and meaningful life in the community.
