Our son Pete* has complex epilepsy (Lennox Gastaut Syndrome) with associated learning disabilities. He lived with his family until he was 11. At this point his behaviour was extremely challenging, epilepsy was uncontrolled and the Local Education Authority and Social Care Providers couldn’t meet his needs.
Pete was offered a residential placement at a school near Manchester, which was a one hour journey from his home in Rotherham. His family struggled with him being away from home and desperately wished he could live closer to his family and home.
At 18 years of age, Pete was able to leave school in Manchester and following a carefully managed transition, he joined Dene Brook. He settled in very easily – staff were extremely accommodating – all staff received comprehensive training and support from specialist teams to safely manage his complex medical needs.
He has autism, ADHD, and is non-verbal. Staff are able to meet his communication needs effectively with symbols and objects of reference. Pete used to present with extremely challenging behaviour, but now with the correct medication regime, supported and managed by staff at Dene Brook, with behaviour management strategies, a calm living environment, and experienced staff, Pete is a calm and contented young adult who enjoys life.
We never worry about him as we know he is safe and happy at Dene Brook. The staff are all approachable and clear as to how to support Pete with compassion, enthusiasm and respect. Pete now lives with two young people of his own age.
He has his own room with an en-suite and is now only a ten minute journey from home. He is extremely happy and has staff who care for him during the day and night. He goes in to the community – shopping, going out for walks, restaurants, visits to the seaside, sensory rooms, and regularly enjoys visiting his family at home.
Staff are open and honest and we visit whenever we can and are always welcome. Pete is very happy and enjoys living at Dene Brook – there are often parties and get together for families to meet.
*Name has been changed to protect his identity