We interviewed our customer Stephen one cold February morning, at our office in Denmark Street, as he had some very exciting news for us: his father – Don Bastow – had decided to write his incredible story for the family, during Stephen’s latest hospital admission. This wasn’t the first hospital admission for Stephen, who spent his life dealing with various medical conditions, but this time his dad thought he would not come out alive!
The book is a little treasure chest filled with precious photos, happy family memories and the outline of a scary journey lived by a very brave family.
There are many touching moments, but the sweetest thing we would like to highlight - apart from all the challenges Stephen and his family had to face – is the love story of Stephen and his partner Jackie, which was featured on the three parts BBC3 programme The Unbreakables: Life & Love On Disability Campus , in July 2015. The programme examined life for young people living with a disability around the Campus, and Stephen and Jackie’s story was one of them.
Mr Bastow introduces his book by saying “The proof that a person, with some learning difficulties, together with a little help and support, can live a happy, contented, and successful life”, and Support Horizons is very proud to be playing a very small role in Stephen and Jackie’s lives.
The book isn’t on sale, as it was meant for family and friends, but we were kindly donated a copy by Stephen to keep in the office, so pop in to see us and take a look at the book should you wish to find out more about the story.
"Not many people can honestly say they love their job, but I can. With such a diverse client base, every day brings its own challenges and enjoyment. One day I could be helping with the housework and laundry, the next I could be at a gig or trampolining, you can never be sure what each day will bring. But knowing that when you leave your client, that you have helped them to achieve something that might not be possible without your help, guidance and support is immeasurable."
G. Froomes
"I really wanted to work for Support Horizons as I liked the idea of being given the opportunity to make a difference to people lives, the flexible working hours also attracted me as they fit around my family. I also liked that Support Horizons are a community interest company who go the extra mile to ensure their customers’ needs are fulfilled."
"I have been working for Support Horizons for over 2 years and enjoy the variety my role as support worker brings. I especially like seeing customers begin to be more independent as well as support others to remain independent. I absolutely love my job it is very rewarding to see the difference I can make to people lives."
"I am proud to work for Support Horizons, it is a pleasure working for a company that values your contributions and wants you to be the best you can. I also like that Support Horizons is an ever expanding friendly, warm and welcoming company to work for."
C. Herridge