Activities & fun for Martin

At Kingsway Care, we’re all about making a real difference by listening to what our Clients truly want. Meet Martin, a vibrant 42-year-old living with Cerebral Palsy in Lancing. His story highlights the power of personalised, client-focused care taken to the max.

By involving Martin in creating his care plan, we’ve helped him get out more, try new activities, and socialise. Martin’s plan includes care tasks but is focused on enjoying life and hitting his personal goals.

Understanding Martin’s Unique Needs

Martin receives direct payments from the government which allows him to buy care services instead of getting them from the local council. He chooses to employ a Personal Assistant and loves Kingsway Care visits to support him during his PA’s weekly days off.

Despite this robust support system, there remained gaps where Martin was on his own, limiting his ability to engage in social and recreational activities.

Crafting a Care Plan with Martin

Kingsway Senior CareGiver Sebastien is Martin’s Client Champion. Here they are enjoying the Food and Friendship Luncheon Club in Hove.

Recognising Martin’s desire to get out more and participate in various activities, we invited him to our office to actively involve him in crafting his care plan. By allowing Martin to visually see our roster, he could choose the times and days that suited him best. This hands-on approach ensures that Martin’s personal goals are central to his care arrangement, increasing his physical and mental well-being.

Making Time for Activities

Martin pointed out that needing two hours of care during each visit left him with limited time for outings and activities. To address this, he suggested a more efficient morning routine. By opting for a bed wash instead of a shower and allowing our CareGivers to dress him quickly instead of assisting him in dressing himself, Martin maximised his available time for activities. This proactive solution demonstrated Martin’s desire to optimise his care time and enjoy his outings to the fullest.

Longer Visit Times

We’ve also extended our visit times from 9.30am to 4pm on the days Martin doesn’t need clinical care from the District Nurse. This allows ample time for activities and simple pleasures like going out to enjoy lunch.

Vicky, Kingsway Care’s MD, invited Martin to our Hove HQ to discuss his care plan, review our roster, and determine which days and times would suit him best to achieve his personal goals.

Martin’s Activities Wishlist

During our discussions, Martin shared a wishlist of activities he was eager to pursue. Together, we developed a plan to incorporate these into his routine.

• Boxing for the Disabled: Martin expressed interest in taking up boxing, a fantastic way to stay active and build confidence.
• Boccia: Already a part of his weekly routine, Martin enjoys playing Boccia every Tuesday morning at the King Alfred Leisure Centre. It’s just around the corner from Kingsway Care’s Hove HQ too!
• Wheelchair Football: Exploring opportunities for Martin to join wheelchair football teams, combining his love for the sport with physical activity.
• Cinema Trips: After a successful outing to see “Twister” with Olly, Kingsway Care’s founder, cinema trips are now a regular part of Martin’s plan.
• Pub, Football, Lunch, and Socialising: Regular social outings to local pubs and lunches, where Martin can enjoy the company of friends and fellow football enthusiasts.
• Food & Friendship Lunch: A wonderful initiative that allows Martin to connect with others over a shared meal, promoting social interaction and community engagement.
• CareGiver Training Involvement: Martin expressed interest in participating in our CareGiver training sessions, particularly in moving and hoisting techniques for people with disabilities.
• Amex Football Match: Martin’s dream is to watch his favourite team, Arsenal, play at the Amex Stadium, and we are committed to making this happen.
• Activity Holiday for the Disabled: Topping his wishlist, Martin is eager to go on an activity holiday designed for individuals with disabilities, promising adventure, and new experiences.

Moving Forward with Martin’s Activity Goals

“Without Kingsway Care, I would be stuck in bed all day”

By involving Martin in the planning process and incorporating his suggestions for a more efficient care routine, we have created a care plan that not only meets his needs but also enriches his life with activities he loves. This collaborative approach ensures that Martin is not just a recipient of care but an active participant in shaping his own experiences.

Advocating for Martin’s Funding Review

Recognising that increased activities and social engagement are crucial for Martin’s well-being, we have been actively advocating for Adult Social Care Services to review his funding. Martin’s greatest wish is to go on a holiday designed for individuals with disabilities, and we believe this experience would be incredibly enriching for him.

Fulfilling Active and Social Lifestyle

Previously, Martin was able to afford a holiday and update his mobility car every three years, and we are hopeful that with a revised care package, he will be able to maintain these important aspects of his life. By securing the necessary support, we aim to help Martin achieve his personal goals and enjoy a fulfilling, active, and social lifestyle.