Patrick

(Names have been changed to protect the identity of our clients)

Patrick is a 44 year old man with learning and physical disabilities. When first referred to us he had no independent social life and although he lived with his father, he was lonely. Patrick and his befriender formed a happy relationship immediately and continue to get on very well. Together with his befriender Patrick has visited some local tourist attractions, played pool in the pub, visited his grandmother and best of all, been to the seaside, which he had never done before. His befriender also introduced Patrick to gardening – planting seeds and nurturing vegetables at the befriender’s allotment.

Patrick moved to live with his mother in a bungalow, but some time later she died. Patrick’s befriender supported him during his mother’s last weeks of life and then after her death. He accompanied Patrick to her funeral and has since taken him to visit and tend for her grave. He continues to support Patrick emotionally and is helping him to move on after his bereavement. Patrick now lives alone and his tidy garden is a tribute to the work of his befriender in introducing him to the care of plants.