Lee's story

My name is Lee. I am 40-years-old and I have a learning disability. I am currently in the process of moving out into my own flat in the community. I have been a resident in a Consensus facility since 1986, when I was 17-years-old.

After I had left school in 1985, I began a Work Introduction Course at college. Shortly afterwards, my mum’s health deteriorated and she was unable to look after me. This is when I moved into the Consensus accommodation. My mum was diagnosed with lung cancer and sadly she passed away in 1992.

After my mum’s death, I lost contact with my brother for many years and I regarded the staff and residents at the Consensus facility as my family. I feel that I settled fairly quickly into my new home, perhaps because I had spent so much time living away from home when at school. I made some good friends and this has helped me a lot.

I thought my life skills were fairly good when I moved to the Consensus accommodation, but the time I spent there has taught me a lot. The staff have been patient and supportive throughout. I feel I have improved in many areas, especially developing my life skills, and I have learnt how to control my emotions. I now know that it is better to talk to someone if I have a problem, rather than just keeping it to myself. I have always been given a wide choice of education, work, and social activities. I keep myself very busy and never seem to have much spare time, but when I do, I like to go to town and meet with my friends.

My last day is going to feel very strange. I have been here for so many years now that it feels like a lifetime, and I know I am going to be upset when I leave. Things are going to be so different from now on. I know it is time to step out into the community on my own, and I feel that my time with Consensus has taught me a lot. I have greater confidence and independence, and I have advanced my life skills. All the things I have learnt will enable me to succeed in my new life.