Emma is 73 and her son Jack is 56. Jack suffered an embolism at that age of 9 years which left him with limited mobility, epilepsy and a mild cognitive impairment.
Emma looked after her son for 54 years but now both of their lives have changed due to self-directed support.
When Emma was hospitalised after an accident, she became worried that Jack would not be able to look after himself if something happened to her.
Jack has been supported to move out of his mother's house and now has his own flat which has been adapted to suit him. He receives an individual budget and has carers that come and help him which had been arranged by Adult Services (through an Individual Service fund). Jack also attends a day centre 4½ days per week.
Although the situation has been a big change for both Emma and Jack, both mother and son are very happy. Jack now has more independence and dignity in how he leads his life. Now Emma has more spare time and has learnt how to use the internet.
Emma is very proud of Jack and feels that the major steps they have taken together have been very successful and changed their lives for the better. Emma now knows that if something happens to her, Jack would be able to cope and move forward in his life because he is more independent.
A year later, Jack's life is less restricted and he is achieving even greater independence. Jack has reduced the number of days he spends at the day centre.
He is now employing a private Personal Assistant (recommended by a member of staff at the day centre), who is flexible and can accommodate his needs much more efficiently than the previous arrangements.
Jack doesn't need to worry about the money as the Independent Living Agency Payroll service is managing this for him.
All these factors have made a huge difference to Jack's quality of life.