Jon and Gemma are a couple who face unique challenges every day. Both have learning disabilities and suffer from anxiety, and Jon is also registered as blind. Despite these obstacles, they have built a life together, relying on each other for support and companionship.
However, they previously relied heavily on family and neighbours for help with bills, finances, and general advice. Unfortunately, not all the advice they received was beneficial, and it became clear that Jon and Gemma were very impressionable.
Initial support
We began supporting Jon and Gemma just after they received a Section 21 notice.
This means they have been told they have to leave the accommodation that they have been paying to stay in. So our priority was to secure new, private accommodation for both of them.
Our support worker Ian first conducted a budgeting review to determine what level of rent they could afford. Ian then registered them with local estate agents, helped them sign up and also provided references.
Resettlement process
Once accommodation was secured, Ian helped with the resettlement process, ensuring all meter readings, deposits, and other details were handled from their old property. He set up all utilities with direct debits, including rent payment, house insurance, internet, council tax, and housing benefit.
Jon and Gemma struggled with documents and phone calls to other agencies due to their learning disabilities and Jon’s sight impairment. These administrative tasks often triggered their anxieties. To address this, we aimed to make the resettlement process inclusive.
Instead of completing every task for them, Ian encouraged Jon and Gemma to take responsibility for setting up some of the bills themselves. Initially, this was done under his supervision. But, over time, they managed some tasks independently, such as switching broadband suppliers.
Financial and benefits support
Ian accompanied Jon and Gemma to several appointments at the Job Centre. And established that Jon should be in the Limited Capability Work group. They also applied for the carer’s element of Universal Credit for Gemma and for carer’s allowance. Both are now receiving all applicable benefits.
Future support and volunteering
After resettlement, they looked into future support and resources that would benefit them. A referral was made, and an assessment was completed by the Learning Disabilities Team at Dorset Council. Jon and Gemma expressed interest in volunteering.
Ian helped Jon apply for a volunteering position at Dorset Museum, where he initially worked on reception duties and has since progressed to assisting guests with tours.
Ian also inquired about volunteering opportunities for Gemma at the Veterans Hub in Weymouth. Gemma attended an interview and was accepted as a volunteer, preparing food two days a week. Feedback from the Vets Hub indicated that Gemma settled in well and is pleased with her work.
Employment and ongoing support
Jon expressed a desire to work despite his sight issues. We discussed potential opportunities and looked at examples of other blind individuals. Like MP David Blunkett.
So, Jon signed up for CTEC and is currently undergoing regular training with them, with the possibility of returning to paid employment in the future.
The final focus of Ian’s support was to signpost agencies, such as Citizens Advice and the Learning Disabilities Team. These are great places that Jon and Gemma could contact for assistance.
While their confidence has improved, ongoing support is still beneficial. Our First Point office offers this support through drop-ins at Weymouth, where Jon and Gemma are regular visitors.
Positive future
Jon and Gemma’s confidence and independence have significantly improved. They have managed their new tenancy without issues and are aware of which agencies to contact if they encounter difficulties. The support from First Point at drop-ins now primarily involves checking that what they have done is correct. Jon and Gemma have made remarkable progress and continue to build their independence and confidence.
