Enabling people to develop to their personal potential
We support adults with learning disabilities to live independently in their own homes, get the most out of life and enjoy being valued members of their local community.
Staff at our Outstanding Independent Supported Living service work with a range of professionals and our tenants to deliver the most appropriate, personalised level of support to match their needs.
We place the emphasis on ‘independent’ and carefully tailor support to enable people in our care reach their personal potential.
Our current service area covers the North East.
“I love working in St Cuthbert’s Care head office making birthday cards for all the staff.” Carolyn, ISL Tenant
Our support helped Gail find her dream job
Gail always wanted to work as a receptionist, our ‘Outstanding’ staff team supported her through college to gain the skills she needed to make her dream come true. Even when Gail’s lack of confidence threw up another stumbling block on her road to success, we weren’t defeated.
A tailored, one-to-one focus on honing her skills soon had her flicking through the vacancy ads. She’s now a receptionist at the Alan Shearer Activity Centre where she’s an invaluable member of the team.
“Even when I didn’t believe in myself, the staff didn’t give up. I can’t thank them enough for helping to make my dream come true.” Gail, ISL Tenant
Volunteering helps Barbara grow in confidence
No-one loves helping out and having a friendly chat more than Barbara. Her vivacious personality meant she was keen to find a volunteer role and thanks to the longstanding support she has received from our staff, Barbara is happily volunteering in a local café.
During her time with us, she has not only grown in confidence but gained the life skills that enable her to plan her route and travel independently to the café by bus. Barbara is so proud of the new skills she has learned, too, which include the health and safety requirements and food hygiene knowledge needed to work in the café environment.
“It’s my favourite day of the week seeing all my friends at the cafe,” Barbara ISL tenant
Living life to the full
Chris and David have been friends since they first met at our Independent Supported Living Service and share a love of getting away from it all whenever they can.
The fact that both men have learning disabilities doesn’t stop them living life to the full and they can regularly be found browsing through travel information and planning their next holiday with our staff.
Because our staff work with them to make sure there is a solid plan in place before they set off, spending money is allocated to each holiday excursion in advance and suitable clothing packed for whatever destination they choose, Chris and David can relax and make the most of their break away. Although they still need support during their holiday, our friendly staff aren’t intrusive and allow Chris and David time to be themselves.
“Sometimes we’re invited to join in with the fun and they’re never short of someone to take all of those holiday photos they love so much!” Susan ISL Registered Manager
Our Aims
Our Outstanding Independent Supported Living services are based on sound principles and aim to ensure everyone using the service can:
- Stay as healthy as possible
- Feel safe, secure and free from discrimination
- Live the life they choose
- Be a valued member of the community
- Enjoy economic wellbeing
- Develop and maintain their independence at a level that meets their potential
Our Objectives
Each person is directly involved in developing their own care, support and risk management plans to ensure the service we deliver is tailored to meet their individual needs. These are agreed with social services at each annual review.
Based on these individual needs, our services could include support with:
• Health-related matters, taking medication, visiting the GP or hospital
• Personal care tasks, such as getting dressed or bathing
• Planning meals, shopping and cooking
• Developing domestic skills, such as washing or cleaning
• Accessing local community facilities
• Developing friendships and relationships
• Matters relating to tenancies
• Enabling them to live the life they choose
Leading from the front with a passion for person-centred care
I have worked with St Cuthbert’s Care for x years and have a wealth of experience of working with people with learning disabilities and/or autism.
Together with my team, we provide independent supported living (ISL) services across Newcastle and Northumberland ranging from two-person households to purpose-built apartments supported by a concierge service. Earlier this year, we opened a brand-new concierge plus service, supporting people living with learning disabilities and/or autism who are experiencing mental health problems; strengthening our position as one of the leading care providers in this field.
We are committed to ensuring everyone receives personalised opportunities to realise their full potential and were delighted to be rated as Outstanding by the Care Quality Commission at our last inspection.
Above all, we strive to achieve excellence in all that we do and provide flexible support that is sensitive, compassionate, fulfilling and personalised.
Susan Balmain
Registered Manager
“Staff were totally committed to delivering a service which improved the lives of the people using the service in creative and fulfilling ways. Their drive and passion had created and exceptionally dynamic and vibrant service.”
Excerpt from CQC report published 9 October 2018
