Consensus attends the National Star Transition Event in Gloucestershire
Across the UK, Consensus Support is an award-winning independent provider of support and accommodation for individuals with learning disabilities, autism, Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) and additional complex needs. Consensus offers a range of residential, supported living and day centre opportunities across the U.K. and supports the transition process as young people reaching adulthood transition into our adult residential or supported living services, ensuring they feel safe and reassured throughout the journey.
On Friday 8th April Consensus colleagues Marta Yohannes and Katie Beverley were part of an event for students, parents and support staff organised by National Star College at its Ullenwood Manor site, near Cheltenham in Gloucestershire. This is an independent specialist further education college for people with physical disabilities, acquired brain injuries and associated learning difficulties.
The teams at National Star are driven by their vision for a world in which people with disabilities are able to realise their potential as equal and active citizens in control of their lives. This sits at the heart of everything they do, from the personalised and world-class learning they provide via National Star College to training, specialist services and their work in the wider community. All of this is underpinned by both their passion to enrich people’s lives and by their moral and statutory responsibilities.
Over 130 parents and carers together with their children came along on the day to have a look at options after leaving full-time specialist education. It was a great opportunity for the young people to find out more about what next steps they may want to take.
“We had lots of positive and informative conversations at the transition event and were able to offer our expertise and guidance on where parents can look to for options and advice, in considering future choices for their child,” said Katie, Referrals and Partnerships Coordinator for Consensus. “We explained Consensus’ smooth transition process for young people who have a learning disability, autism or complex needs to move into one of our services.”
“At Consensus we understand that any change or transition needs to be expertly managed with great care, attention to detail and empathy. We help young people as they develop greater independence and leave the family home or their specialist school or college. While it can be an anxious time for all involved, it’s also an exciting one as they embark upon a new phase of their life.”
“Many of the attendees we engaged with were reassured to hear about our approach in how we tailor support and create opportunities for all individuals with complex needs inclusively with their circle of support ” added Marta, who is Referrals and Partnerships Manager for Consensus covering North & Wales region.
“It was also insightful for them to learn about the many support options out there – including our residential, supported living, shared accommodations and activity-based settings. We even spoke about the numerous new developments we have on the radar. Overall, it was just great knowing people felt reassured by the advice we were giving and that they went away feeling a little less anxious about the future for their loved one.”
It was fantastic to have everybody back to meeting face-to-face once again and we look forward to attending our next event.
Find out more about the National Star Transition Event here.