Category: Uncategorized
H: Three Months Later
iBC Healthcare is always thrilled to share such incredible outcomes of the people we support. We are committed to understanding the care and support needs of the people who are referred to iBC services before we begin to support them, which is often remarkable in comparison a few months later …
H is a sociable young lady with lots of energy. Her needs are consistent with Autistic Spectrum Disorder, combined with severe generalised Learning Difficulties and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. H has complex difficulties relating to Autism that impact her learning, communication, personal, social and emotional development. H’s diagnosis also affects her physical needs, sensory needs and level of independence. At the time of referral, H was residing in a children’s residential care home. However, as H was fast approaching her 18th birthday it was identified that H would benefit from specialist support in her own home, so a referral to iBC Healthcare was made in Spring 2023.
At the time of iBC’s assessment process, H presented with extremely challenging behaviour including severe property damage, and self-injurious behaviour; such as biting, hitting and dropping to the floor. H would shred her clothes, bedding and other fabrics. H’s change in behaviour was sudden, unpredictable and triggered by minor changes to her routine, environment and the time of year. H found comfort in accessing the outdoors to regulate her emotions at times her anxieties were heightened or distressed. This was all to be factored in finding and adapting H’s forever home, in her local community, close by to her family and circle of support.
After a successful assessment, iBC set out to find the perfect property. Taking into crucial consideration H’s need for outdoor space, robust specification, toughened features and the right balance of privacy but by no means isolation. iBC worked in partnership with H’s MDT, and family for several weeks. Until an ideal solo bungalow was found and adapted specifically in line with H’s particular needs, to include underfloor heating, new walls, an additional wet room and specialist vinyl flooring. This work allowed iBC to design the right environment to offer as H’s long-term home to mark her transition into adulthood and the beginning of her journey to greater independence.
Following a carefully planned transition, knowing this would be extremely difficult for H. H moved into her new home in August 2023 and has settled incredibly well considering her complex needs and anxieties surrounding the transition. We are thrilled to share that H’s behaviours of concern have reduced a great amount and she is becoming much more independent. Accessing the community daily to enjoy new opportunities such as parties, walking, shopping and heading out for ice cream with her support team and family.
Just three months later, H’s Mum has shared her positive feedback.
“We feel that H has settled in really well and is happy in her new home – supported living in a bungalow on her own really suits her! She seems much calmer and anxiety levels are low for most of the time.”
H’s parents share that they believe this anxiety reduction is thanks to H having her own space, surrounded by things she enjoys. Alongside the freedom to access the community and her garden when she wants to, without limitation. We continue to support H in maintaining the positive relationships she has in her life, encouraging her to spend valuable time with her family regularly. H has also reached one of her set goals of accessing further education and tutoring!
“She has built up good relationships with the staff who have taken the time to get to know H and what she likes, so she feels safe with them.” Says H’s Mum. “There have been several indicators of this such as a decrease in ripping, self-harming and destructive behaviour. H has even stopped biting her nails!“
“Staff have been great with H especially Uday – He has a good understanding of what works with H and how to speak to her – she really does listen to him.” – “The tutoring has also started to work now – H spent an hour with the tutor at the end of this week which is a big thing for H as it usually takes a long time for her to get to know someone.”
iBC is incredibly pleased that H has achieved such positive outcomes in as little as three months. We truly believe that this is thanks to H being supported in an environment that is right for her, by highly skilled people who are committed in offering person-centred support.
A big thank you to Adele Rickett and her team in the North Midlands. You really do, #doamazingeveryday
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.
Meet The Manager – Adele Rickett
Adele Rickett joined iBC Healthcare in January 2023 and is the Registered Manager for North Midlands Supported Living. In a short space of time Adele has managed to transform the lives of many people she comes in to contact with. By her creative ways in supporting some of the most vulnerable people within the community.
Today we had the opportunity to meet Adele to discuss her journey, and the reasons why she does what she does.
Tell us a little bit about your journey so far since joining IBC and what made you join?
I joined iBC Healthcare in January 2023 and since, has been the best time of my career! I’ve loved every second of my job, the support I receive from my surrounding colleagues is outstanding. Upon joining iBC Healthcare as a recommendation. I saw the values and mission of the company matched my own values in care, and support for people with complex learning disabilities and care needs. Since my journey, I have gone through brilliant and consistent training. I have been supported to achieve the best outcome for people we support. I have achieved outstanding goals in supported living North which have been ‘non-achievable’ for other care providers. My journey will only keep going stronger. With my team around me, we can continue to achieve incredible outcomes and goals, promoting more independence and better lives. We do amazing everyday!
What are the best bits about your role?
There is so much I love about my role it’s incredibly rewarding. Being able to support people to live better lives. Helping them to achieve goals that nobody expected, and enabling people to live happy, fulfilling lives in their own homes in the community. This will always be the best parts of my role. I work with an amazing team of support workers. All with our values aligned as we build strong relationships with the people we support. It’s also a privilege as a Manager to be a person of trust to all.
What are the challenges?
As we know, the demand for specialist homes in the community is very high in light of so many people awaiting discharge from hospitals or secure settings, but unfortunately, suitable solutions are lacking. Offering specialist accommodation and support for complex needs isn’t easy, requiring a great amount of knowledge, experience and planning. We are extremely committed in offering the opportunities that people deserve, and we truly believe that everyone has the right to live in their on home with the right support. Seeing the outcomes we enable makes the challenges worth it every time.
What would you say to someone if they were thinking about joining the care industry?
Absolutely do it! It is the most rewarding and heartwarming job you can do. You feel fulfilled when you are able to change lives for people in a positive way and achieve so many goals. I used to be a hairdresser before my career in care, and I have been in care now for 10 years, starting as a support worker. So I have been in many different roles, and nothing makes me feel happier than to have had the experience of growing from a support worker to a registered manager. In the care industry, no matter what role you are in, can achieve many positive outcomes for people we support.
Thank you Adele!
Adele has had an inspirational impact to the North Supported Living Service. Adele is a wonderful manager with great leadership qualities and inspires her teams every day. Adele is focused on delivering high quality care within her team and ensuring learning outcomes and goals are achieved for the individuals we support.
Stephanie Turner – iBC Healthcare Area Manager North
Adele and her team are a true reflection of iBC’s aims and values, by helping people to achieve the “unachievable” in the community. Their efforts and incredible outcomes never go unnoticed, which is evident in light of their recent finalists nomination for the Great British Care Award – Supported Living Team Award. Thank you!
Welcome J!
J is a vibrant young man with a diagnosis of a Learning Disability. J cannot communicate verbally and had formerly presented with severe bouts of challenging behaviour towards himself and those around him. At the time of referral, J had surpassed notice, issued by his former placement considering his complex needs and were no longer able to support him in the shared residential environment.
At the time of referral, J presented as very distressed and was at significant risk of self-harm and aggression towards others. J would often shred and pick his clothes to regulate his emotions and his anxiety became heightened when the residents around him would make noise. This is why iBC were identified as a suitable provider with our ability to offer a single occupancy home for life with specialist support, in the city J is originally from.
Upon referral, iBC’s Referrals Manager Ebony Staite facilitated several viewings to Anita Jane Lodge in Leicester, to ensure J’s close family, circle of support and MDT could be involved in the selection and personalisation of an apartment that would be offered to J as his forever home, with his own support team and tenancy.
“Having worked with J before, I was incredibly keen for iBC to support him. I knew we could offer him a highly bespoke support package tailored to his particular needs. Those initial conversations with J’s family were vital in getting to know how J’s presentation had changed over the past 12 months and how they hoped J’s life would look in near future.” Ebony said.
It is imperative that J is supported by people who know him very well, by a team that can understand his methods of communication, anticipate his wants and needs and are highly confident in supporting behaviours that challenge. J’s family advised that in the past, different medications have been tried to manage J’s behaviour, but some had caused him to present in a highly sedated state or even worsened J’ anxieties, on some occasions causing an increase in self-injurious behaviour. iBC strongly believe in least restrictive practice to include chemical restraint, which is why we understood that J required a skilled, consistent, and structured staff team, who can interact with him positively in line with a person centred PBS plan. In light of this, iBC conducted a thorough assessment, a robust four week transition plan and in April this year, J moved into his own ground floor apartment in Anita Jane Lodge Leicester, close by to his family.
When J first joined iBC, he presented with significant challenging behaviour towards his support staff to include physical aggression such as targeting and biting, with daily recorded incidents. J would not engage with his support team, would not partake in activity nor go outside. With a highly person centred approach to his care, PBS intervention and commitment to building a positive rapport, we are thrilled to share that J is now very settled and enjoying the freedom of living in a single occupancy environment with very minimal incidents recorded over the last three consecutive months.
J is now regularly accessing his garden and local community and where he couldn’t before due to risk, is now accessing his own kitchen to prepare food and bake with the support of his staff. J’s behaviour of shredding his clothes has improved substantially.
“Looking at these photos, it’s incredible to see J smiling, wearing a complete outfit of clothing without holes or tears. We continue to hear great things about the relationships he is building with his support team. I am really looking forward to seeing what the future holds for J at Anita Jane Lodge” – says Ebony.
Where J’s support team identify any need for self-regulation, he is provided with colorful card and paper to tear and shred, which has created a positive and fun activity for him to do with his support peers.
J’s personality is now shining through. Cheeky in nature, J likes to pinch the cookie dough mix when baking, enjoys the summer sunshine whilst foraging in his garden and is enjoying a life of improved opportunity in the community of Leicester with the right level of specialist support.
Thank you to our supported living team of Leicester, in particular Registered Manager Liz Snow and Senior Team Leader Matt Bray, you really do … #doamazingeveryday
To make a referral, please email referrals@ibchealthcare.co.uk
Welcome D!
iBC Healthcare and Lester Hall Apartments in particular, are thrilled to welcome D into the service this week. After nearly a year of incredible efforts from all involved, not to mention the remarkable patience of D in anticipation of hospital discharge, we are proud to say that D is finally coming home to Leicester, joining Lester Hall Apartments and on behalf of D, we are honored to share his story.
D has experienced frequent readmissions to hospital since 2008, including time spent within PICU (Pediatric Intensive Care Unit), forensic assessment, acute and rehabilitation services in accordance with his complex presentation and level of risk at these times. Before joining iBC Healthcare, D had been detained as an inpatient in various secure settings in London for over five years consecutively. D has a longstanding diagnosis of EUPD and throughout his life has sadly engaged in severe acts of self-injurious behaviour.
D is originally from Leicester and despite his troubled upbringing into the early years of his adulthood, he expressed his wishes to return “home”. D was referred to iBC Healthcare in the Summer of 2022, at such time very early conversations were being held about the hospital’s ability to discharge him. Despite several setbacks, fluctuating presentation and complications over the course of six months, iBC were committed in helping D reintegrate back into his community and in January 2023 our robust assessment process began to include regular discussions with D’s MDT, several in person visits to see D in London and an internal high risk panel to ensure iBC were well equipped to support D’s complex mental health needs and the severity of his behaviour. Once iBC and the Lester Hall Apartments operational team were more than confident in our ability to help D reach and exceed his potential, a bespoke transitional plan was implemented to ensure D built a great rapport with his new support peers.
Despite residing in London for over five years, D had never enjoyed any sight-seeing. So, as part of iBC’s transition plan we headed over to the London Zoo, London Airport, the local nature reserve and a cat café! Throughout transition, D has made the trip to Leicester himself, to visit his new peers of Lester Hall Apartments, taking a particular liking to the homes Cat, Felix! This week Lester Hall Apartments to include residents, support colleagues and management are throwing D a BBQ, after learning he hadn’t had one in seven years! The perfect opportunity to show D what Lester Hall Apartments are all about.
Registered Manager Charlie Potter, was nothing short of remarkable throughout this transition; dedicating many hours, train journeys and resource into ensuring a strong and trusting relationship was deeply rooted before D joined us. We are thrilled at the feedback from D, which is innately clear reading this beautiful poem he has written:
Supporting people to live in their own communities, with regular contact with their circles of support is incredibly important to iBC. Our support is designed in line with people’s particular needs, wishes and goals; empowering them to live a life they want to, where they want to.
We are looking forward to seeing D flourish in the community with the support of Lester Hall Apartments and iBC. A very special thank you to Charlie and her team for your commitment to changing D’s life for the better. Welcome D! #wedoamazingeveryday
To make a referral, please email referrals@ibchealthcare.co.uk
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”
iBC Specialist Supported Living
iBC support many individuals with complex needs, with a high level of specialism in Autism, ASD, PMLD, Sensory Needs, Mental Health, and behaviours that challenge. We believe that everyone has the right to access tailored support and personalised environments within the community, no matter how complex their care needs may be, in line with the Transforming Care Program and “Building The Right Support”. iBC are passionate about breaking barriers when it comes to ensuring the choices of the people we support are at the very centre of everything we do. With creative thinking and pushing boundaries, we empower the people we support to live the life they want, to achieve the “unachievable”.
iBC are widely recognised for enabling positive outcomes to people with significantly complex needs and challenging behaviour, with a proven track record of zero failed placements across supported living services. iBC source and adapt properties in line with people’s specific needs to include specialist anti ligature environments, underfloor heating, toughened furniture, sensory spaces, robust fixtures and more. iBC acknowledge that lack of specialist accommodation contributes to hospital and secure setting discharge delays, which is why we work with commissioners to design these spaces for the people we support, reflecting our belief in #homesnothospitals.
Please email referrals@ibchealthcare.co.uk to make an enquiry, we are assessing individuals and allocating to their forever homes now.
#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”.
#homesnothospitals#wedoamazingeveryday
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
Person Centred Care – This is JP
JP is a young man who is profoundly deaf with a learning disability. Following a breakdown of care in a residential placement J had to move in with his sister where she cared for J for over a year. J’s needs are considered complex, requiring 2:1 specialist support and so they began to search for J’s own property. Unfortunately this process proved difficult and even after finally finding and accepting a property, plans fell through and J and his family were left disappointed when told they needed to start their search again.
Having built good relationships with local commissioners and already offering a hub of supported living properties within the desired area, a referral was made to iBC Healthcare to explore and provide a bespoke home for life and specialist support in Nottinghamshire. IBC conducted a robust assessment process between Christmas and New Year 2022 and by early 2023, IBC were keen to offer a package of care and a home J can call his own.
When the right property was found, IBC’s Operational Team in Nottingham worked together to produce a comprehensive transition plan and begin value based recruitment in line with J’s communicational needs to include British Sign Language and Makaton.
J celebrated his 30th birthday during the transitional care period; so as a surprise, Registered Manager for Supported Living Nottinghamshire, Adele Rickett arranged with his family for J to see his completed home for the first time!
Adele Rickett said “He was so happy and he loved his new home! He took lots of pictures and told us exactly how he wants it. He was very happy and smiley the whole time, we decorated the house with banners and balloons to make the experience enjoyable and he was over the moon to say the least!”
IBC Managing Director, Brendan Kelly said “What a lovely thing to do. Thank you so much to Adele and her team for making this effort for J. In tough weeks when things are super busy, this stuff never ceases to make me smile!”
J officially moved into his new home on the 18th of April and is settling brilliantly. This week, J participated in a bespoke British Sign Language session delivered by HearFirst Training. This training was arranged for J and his support team to ensure all communication needs are met, for peers to build a great rapport with J and to support great practice of BSL in our aims to enhance J’s quality of life in his forever home.
Adele Rickett said “It sure was amazing! We did a feedback form with J using widget communication afterwards and he expressed how much he loved it. J’s support team have expressed how much he and they benefited from the session. It’s fantastic to witness these goals being achieved within the first week of moving in!”
Julie Ryder, HearFirst Training Parter said “The training was interesting in that the service user attended too. It was a valuable session, and J was fully engaged for the whole 3 hours. Staff could see first-hand how well he responded to effective communication. This is a fabulous example of a positive and person-centred approach”
Another incredible example of IBC colleague’s dedication to changing people’s lives. Well done to the whole team and of course… Welcome JP!
To make a referral, please email referrals@ibchealthcare.co.uk
Welcome JL!
iBC Healthcare welcomed JL to Orchard Court, a residential service in Leicester in February 2023. A referral was made to iBC Healthcare in light of placement breakdown, unfortunately JL didn’t receive a quality focused service that people deserve.
Prior to iBC’s 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 stabilize her and for her to feel safe before this low phase advanced. Within 24 hours of this placement being agreed, Registered Manager Becky White of Orchard Court arranged transport and prepared J’s bedroom, ready to support J fully in her new home.
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.
Around three weeks later, J’s mood gradually began to lift and it was evident that J held 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. J is now engaging very well with peers and is accessing the local community how she wishes, vocalising what she would like to achieve and where she would like to go. J’s needs and wishes continue to be met at Orchard Court, offering her 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 in line with IBCs aim 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 with P and those who know him well, P moved to Cale House at Tarry Hill in February.
Our residential care facilities are specialist settings that 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.
P was understandably rather shy and introverted when he first joined us, but with consistent efforts from the support team at Tarry Hill, to engage P and get to know him, he has flourished in his new home and is now actively participating with his peers.
P is now engaging well and continues to build positive relationships with those he lives with and those who support him. P has contributed to the home’s activities and celebrations, such as Tarry Hill’s Valentine’s Day party. P 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 P to lack interest in activities, avoid socializing and unwillingness to engage in daily living tasks.
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
NA’s Journey
NA was originally referred to IBC Healthcare in August 2022 seeking his own home in the community with 24 hour support, as a step down from a secure setting. NA has Autism, limited verbal communication and a number of sensory integrative difficulties along with presenting with PICA traits and behaviour of concern. At the time of referral, it was reported that N had not worn clothes, shoes or in fact even been outside for 7 years. N frequently displayed behaviour that challenged to include physical aggression, smearing and absconding. N experienced multiple placement breakdowns as a result of these complexities, one of these placements lasting as little as 24 hours. With a clear focus on finding a suitable home for life for N, his MDT made a referral to iBC as a specialist provider, offering bespoke accommodation, care and support.
iBC conducted a thorough assessment process to include a preassessment with those that know N well, multiple visits to N in his previous placement along with an internal high risk panel to ensure we fully understood N’s complex needs and how our operational colleagues planned to meet them. During our assessment process, iBC compiled a comprehensive understanding of N’s environmental requirements with input from the people who know him well, in line with his notable sensory needs and associated risk behaviour. N required a single occupancy property that was extremely private but by no means isolated; he required a robust property that would withstand damage caused by biting and tearing, along with anti-shred furnishings, high spec furniture and a need for a minimalist environment to help him regulate sensory sensitivities and autistic arousal.
iBC worked closely with N’s MDT and circle of support to source and secure a bespoke bungalow in Nottingham, that would meet his needs. iBC adapted this property, with key input from N’s Occupational Therapist and other clinical support services. Property adaptations included, underfloor heating, toughened fixtures, anti-ligature fittings, padded walls and sensory spaces. It was also very important for N to have access to a secure garden, to support our aims of reintegrating him back into the community using garden access as a stepping stone to this goal.
NA finally moved into his home for life in January, supported by a specialist team who now know him very well, following a successful transition period. This transitional period was incredibly important, as we were able create a sensory profile, enabling us to identify what makes N unique and empower him to find strengths in his weaknesses. Those who support N, have provided meaningful techniques in line with these needs to ensure N feels safe and supported in his own home.
Adele Rickett (Registered Manager for Supported Living Notts) said: “I just want to share with you what I feel is an amazing and heart-warming achievement. NA was supported by his team and family in the garden yesterday, totaling 2 hours 30 minutes. He wore his clothes and when he took them off, staff offered them back to him and he very willingly put them back on, he didn’t rip his clothes once! N continued to play hide and seek with a member of his support team followed by a drink and a snack outside and sensory activities. He engaged really well.”
iBC are thrilled by the progress made so far by NA and this is only the very start of his journey to maximum independence and an enhanced quality of life. We are very much are looking forward to N exploring his potential is his new home for life.
#transformingcare #homesnothospitals #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. It was expressed that J would be at risk of 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, J experiences increased levels of agitation, auditory hallucinations and was at significant risk of readmission under the Mental Health Act and committing further criminal offences. J 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 for 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 is 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, has attended scheduled appointments, has accessed local amenities in Leicester City Centre and has 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, J 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 be very different for J now. 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
St. George’s Day Service
iBC Healthcare recently celebrated the official opening of iBC / Spoilt 4 Choice’s newest day service in Leicester – St. George’s!
Spoilt-4-Choice St. George’s is a specialist community support service based on William Street, Leicester and is our newest provision to support individuals 18+ with learning disabilities, autism, physical disabilities and other associated needs.
To commemorate the new service, our brilliant colleagues, lead by Community Services Manager Vanice Ricketts collaborated in the planning of an official opening celebration, with very special guests – The Lord Mayor and Mayoress of Leicester.
“iBC started with a Day Centre 10 years ago, almost to the day – so it’s amazing to be standing here as we open this new centre. It’s always such a joy to see the positive impact that Day Services have on the people we support -and the amazing energy and enthusiasm of our colleagues who deliver them. Amazing!”
Nizam Bata – Founder & CEO of iBC Healthcare
St George’s is a warm, inclusive service with a wide variety of activities and space for its visitors to enjoy such as; a sensory room, activity spaces, recreational rooms and outdoor play equipment; encouraging visitors to engage in fun new learning to achieve their goals and aspirations.
Facilities include
- Sensory Room
- Kitchen
- Arts & Craft Room
- Specialist in complex care needs
- Trampoline and Swing
- Recreational Rooms
“The sensory room is unlike anything I have ever seen, instilling a feeling of calm, from lights to different textures. Vanice speaks with such passion and belief in the Day Services we offer. She is such an inspirational lady, she makes me feel proud to work for iBC Healthcare!”
Marie Kent – Commercial Administrator for iBC Healthcare
“Thank you for inviting us to St George’s Day Centre opening day (and the tasty food!). It really was brilliant to hear everyone speaking about inclusion and opportunity in such an uplifting way!”
Kate Peel – Strategic Commissioning Officer for Transforming Care at Leicestershire County Council
To make a referral, please email referrals@ibchealthcare.co.uk
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.
Tarry Hill – High Peak
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 – Mansfield
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 – Leicester
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 – Leicester
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.
To make a referral, please email referrals@ibchealthcare.co.uk and we would be happy to support.
iBC Inhouse Training
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.
DE’s Story
DE has complex care needs, which include Autism and behaviours that challenge. D resided in a nursing home for 20 years until such point the placement broke down, where his local intensive support team became involved and D was detained within an inpatient psychiatric unit for nearly 3 years with physical restraints required to manage risk behaviour. In line with D’s complex care needs, risk behaviour and decline in mental health while in hospital, it was identified that he would benefit from a single occupancy placement with a bespoke package of care. Having a close working relationship with D’s multi-disciplinary team, a referral was made to iBC Healthcare.
At the time of D’s referral, iBC Healthcare had nothing within the area that would suit his needs. However, upon reading D’s assessment we were keen to help and collaborated on a plan to extend our specialist supported living services into Mansfield to offer D a home for life.
During our robust assessment process, we identified that D required a solo environment with a private garden. We identified that D needed a ground floor service to mitigate risk behaviour associated with stairs and a spacious wetroom for self-regulation. D required a resilient environment to include toughened furniture, reinforced windows, doors and specialist wall padding to prevent physical harm associated with his self-injurious behaviours. Soundproofing was also required due to the volume of noise. With this comprehensive spec in mind, iBC began the search for the right property, to be designed and adapted in-house to meet D’s complex needs and in line with Good Autism Guidance.
iBC’s Area Manager, Stephanie Turner expressed interest in a particular bungalow that boasted a generous garden supporting D’s love of football yet compact in property size to support D’s wishes of feeling secure and safe in his environment. The property was conveniently located to D’s family and circle of support, which was incredibly important having been a distance away from them for so many years. Having ticked so many boxes, Head of Commissioning Jenny Payne attended an auction to bid for the property which was successfully secured and ready to begin adaptations with the support of D’s OT and family in preparation for the move.
iBC planned a robust 8-week transition, utilising staff from our established residential service, Dovecote (which has been rated as outstanding in one domain by the CQC) and newly recruited experienced staff from the local area, all of which we carefully selected as compatible with D’s likes, interests and needs. This transition consisted of various visits to D in hospital to build a rapport with his new care team and understand his established routine.
D moved into his home for life on the 4th of January and has since made significant progress in such a short period. On just the first day in his new home, D was evidently impressed with his new surroundings as he took pride in sweeping the floor and unpacking his belongings by choice. Since joining us, D has engaged in various activities such as music therapy, shopping in the local community and going out for meals.
“D has settled into his home well and appears very happy; he is talking about family, laughing and smiling”
What some of us may take for granted, wearing a pair of trainers for the first time in 3 years was an incredible step forward for D.
“We are extremely proud to say that D has not been restrained once since joining us. As advocates of the Restraint Reduction Network, this is a huge achievement”
Future Goals
We have found that active support, intensive interaction and positive behavioural support are the care models that support D the best, by continuing this work we are confident that D will achieve his goal of being the proud owner of a Manchester United season ticket and will attend these games with the support of his person-centred staff team.
S’s Dream of Seeing “The Vamps”
iBC Healthcare are widely recognised for helping those we support to achieve real dreams, goals and aspirations; so when an individual who attends one of our day services in Leicester expressed her admiration for British pop band “The Vamps” and her family told us she would love to see them live, our incredible staff took it upon themselves to make it happen!
Claire Elliot, Team Leader for one of iBC’s Spoilt for Choice day services, liaised with a personal friend and managed to get three tickets to see S’s beloved band at Birmingham’s Utilita Arena.
Upon collecting S from her home in a specialist vehicle arranged by Vanice Ricketts, Day Service Manager, S’s Mum told staff how much she had been vocalising her excitement in the build up to the day. The journey to Birmingham was nothing short of smiles, laughter and singing along to the band they were about to see!
Upon arrival to the Utilita Arena, S and her support staff were given a merchandised band T shirt, event program and were shown to their allocated seats that had been selected by the venue to facilitate S’s wheelchair. Claire said:
“The staff were amazing and very accommodating. I have left a five star review and even emailed the Utilita Arena directly to express how impressed we were with the service from them”
The staff members who accompanied S to the concert know her extremely well, so when they saw S waving her arms, laughing and making her “happy sounds” throughout the supporting act, they knew she was having a brilliant time.
“When The Vamps came on stage, S was so happy. She had tears streaming down her face but at the same time she was smiling her head off. She was that happy I even cried myself – I cried like a baby and couldn’t stop which S found highly amusing!”
On the way home, when staff asked if S had a nice time, she responded with a huge smile accompanied with loud happy vocalisations, S’s support staff are extremely confident that S thoroughly enjoyed her evening which inevitably provided an incredible sense of achievement, knowing they played a key role in one of S’s most memorable days.
iBC Healthcare are dedicated to providing and encouraging positive outcomes for those we support. Everything we do is based on enabling opportunity and empowerment in the community. Our expert support services focus on nurturing little incremental wins that result in rewarding experiences and personalised progress.
Progressive Thinking, Purposeful Interactions and Personal Achievements.
This is SA
SA was referred to iBC Healthcare for emergency accommodation and specialist support following a breakdown in her previous placement and a prolonged hospital admission. iBC Healthcare conducted a thorough assessment process and in October this year, SA moved into a three bedroom solo property within the iBC portfolio, which we are now proud to call SA’s home.
iBC Development Coordinator Ebony Staite, manages our referrals and helped coordinate a smooth transition into the service. Ebony had this to say:
“In just three weeks, our incredible team facilitated property adaptations, person-centred care plans and implemented a dedicated 3:1 staff team who have each received advanced, package-specific in-house training. This short, yet robust transition was led by PBS Lead James Punch and Team Leader for Leicester Supported Living, Matthew Bray who have both been rewarded by the business for their remarkable work! This work reinforces our belief that no matter how complex or challenging a person’s care needs may be, everybody deserves access to the right level of care within their own home and community.”
SA has difficulty transitioning into new services and adapting to change, she needs ample time to build positive relationships. Following multiple failed placements in her life, SA may test boundaries to check she is safe and ensure she can trust those who support her. Our robust staff understand the complexities of SA’s challenging behaviour and her methods of communicating her feelings, anxieties and gaining sensory input. The iBC Team have worked hard to write and implement a person-centred care plan, ensuring SA’s staff team members are committed to getting to know her and building a great rapport.
SA is a vibrant young woman who is an avid fan of Disney, Music, Art and loves to engage in all things self-care such as pampering and makeup to name a few. iBC encourages SA to express her hopes and goals, these include enrolling in further education, getting a job, having her own family, visiting Disney Land and enjoying the occasional night on the town! iBC have carefully selected SA’s staff team to support her in accessing the community how she wishes and help her work towards her long-term goals.
Matthew Bray Team Leader for Leicester Supported Living said:
“It’s been a privilege to be given this opportunity. Being part of SA’s transition and seeing the difference she is making day to day is incredible. The team have been amazing and I’m excited to see what the future holds for her!”
DPG’s Story
DPG has a diagnosis of Autism and Severe Learning Disabilities. DPG relies on his staff to support and encourage routine and structure, to help him understand the world around him. Having high energy levels that need to be channelled into meaningful activities, to help relieve and therefore avoiding escalation in behaviours. DPG is non-verbal, who depends on his staff team to pre-empt his needs and understand him well. So a dedicated and highly skilled staff team is paramount in ensuring DPG’s needs, wishes and goals are met.
Before moving into his own home, in a quiet town in Leicestershire. He lived in his family home, and received community support and respite care from another provider, who’s staff team supported us to facilitate a smooth transition, showcasing partnership working.
Since moving into his new home, DPG has achieved many short-term goals, and continues to grow with the support of his person centred staff team.
Biggest Achievement
DPG is a vibrant individual and is learning to regulate his energy by taking breaks and relaxing between activities. DPG has partaken in activities such as ice-skating, and has been encouraged to help cook fresh meals daily and clean up after activities.
Future Goals
We envisage that DPG’s future outcomes consist of a higher level of independence and exploring new learning in his new environment. We will continue to support DPG in enhancing all acts of daily living, such as food preparation and participation in the general upkeep of his own home.
After our introduction into ice- skating by the Team Leader, DPG has now been approached to skate on the National Autistic Skate Team and is now undertaking a robust program to ensure he achieve this goal.