Environment
Gensing is a block of fifteen flats, with a communal
stairwell and walk ways on each level, provided specifically for people
who have Asperger syndrome. All but two flats are self contained and
each flat has a separate bedroom, kitchen/living room and a bathroom.
The
decor is soft colours, giving a low arousal environment and each tenant
has the opportunity to personalise their flat. All flats have new beech
effect kitchen units and all bedrooms and living areas are carpeted.
A
large drop-in flat is open for evening activities, internet cafe, and
socialising and everyone has access to a large, partially decked
courtyard with raised flower beds and barbeque facilities. CCTV cameras
monitor the premises and a night warden is on duty every night.
Staff
The staff team is headed by a project manager, deputy
manager and two senior support care workers. They support and supervise
a team of staff on duty. In addition, there is a night warden and a
staff member sleeping in at night.
All staff members receive a comprehensive induction programme including:
- Specific autism/Asperger syndrome training
- Mandatory training as required by CSCI
- Training in managing challenging behaviour based on fundamentally
non-aversive principles and reactive plans with full risk assessments.
At
least 50% of staff have, or are undertaking, NVQ training in care and
all staff receive supervision at least six times a year and an
appraisal once a year. The staff team and tenants are supported once a
month by a psychologist who specialises in Asperger syndrome and TEACCH
approaches are used
Service Users
The tenants all have Asperger syndrome. They tend to be mostly male and aged between early 20s and mid 40s.
Each
tenant has their own care package and receives support of between three
and twelve hours a day. Staff support them with life skills, budgeting,
and social skills and a structured timetable is in place for each
tenant.
The aim of the service is to lead these people towards as much independence as they can achieve.
Many
attend the Roebuck Centre where they are offered the opportunity to
undertake social enterprise, college courses, work experience and/or
paid employment.
Evening activities in the drop in flat include
quizzes, board games, film and music nights. There is also a tenants
meeting once a week which all tenants are encouraged to attend. Two
computers with web cams are available for the tenants use for ˝ hour
slots.
The tenants are encouraged to interact socially with
each other and enjoy meals out, concerts, bowling and visits to public
houses together.
For more information, please
contact us
