Here at Bedford we love getting feedback about our clients’ success stories, and this recent email from Eleanor, on behalf of her family, made us particularly proud. It really sounds like her son William has found his ‘fit’ at Day Options Whyalla, and we couldn’t be more pleased!
Bedford Day Options offers programs both in-house and out and about in the local community that provide social connections, and the opportunity to take part in activities that build skills and confidence. Day Options (or, as it's known in Whyalla 'Funshop'!) provides a safe, friendly and inclusive environment, run by qualified disability support workers, where clients can explore individual goals and personal interests and get the most out of each day.
Eleanor was happy for us to share her thoughts with the Bedford community about William's experience with Day Options, and we think it’s important that she does so in her own words…
“Our son William transitioned to full time work with Bedford after graduating from the Whyalla Special School in 2012. Bedford has always been a positive experience for us but last year we started to consider other options to support more independent living, social skills and activities for William.
While Day Options seemed the obvious choice, it was not one we made lightly as adapting to change can be a very big challenge for William.
A very nervous William walked into Day Options on February 9 and a very happy, talkative and excited William walked out the door that same afternoon.
It’s very difficult to put into words how amazed and delighted we are with the change Day Options has made to William’s life in such a short time. He feels incredibly safe and supported by all the staff and is getting very brave at choosing new activities and experiences.
He comes home excited to share his day and has even started to phone his Nana, sisters and Aunty to share his news.
We are beyond grateful to Shelley and her team for making such a positive and respectful contribution to William’s wellbeing and ongoing development. I think we all need a little ‘Funshop’ time in our lives!
With many thanks, Eleanor, Robert (&William)”
If you'd like to find out more about Bedford Day Options in Whyalla, or any of our other sites at Panorama, Port Lincoln, Port Pirie, Wallaroo, and at our new centre in Torrensville, please visit our page here for further information.
*Photos of William with his artwork, and out bowling.
