Earlier this month we spent some time with learners and staff at MacIntyre No Limits in Buckinghamshire. On this particular day the group of about eight learners, each supported 1:1, were based at Walton Hall, a community centre in the heart of Aylesbury and close to shops.
Two of the learners, Bartley and Rosie, joined MacIntyre in September, having previously attended Stocklake Park School in Aylesbury.
Bartley lives at home and attends No Limits three days a week, funded by the local authority with E.O.T.A.S. funding. His ‘All About Me’ programme aims to support him with his confidence and assertiveness. On this day Bartley was being supported by Carrie who joined MacIntyre six years ago; Bartley’s timetable included sessions to discuss emotions and incorporated a trip to the local shops to buy food to cook for lunch (chosen by Bartley) the next day. Bartley loves to dance – a session which is a popular feature on one of his three days with No Limits. Carrie shared that a few weeks earlier Bartley was dropped off at No Limits by his dad who pointed out that Bartley wasn’t feeling 100% and to call him if he needed to pick Bartley up earlier than usual. When his dad had left, Bartley asked that the team didn’t call as he liked to be at No Limits for the full day.
Rosie was being supported by Susan, a MacIntyre staff member for over nine years. Rosie had been shopping for cheese that morning to make cheesy pasta for lunch the following day – Susan and Rosie discussed how Rosie has become much more independent in finding things in the shops, using the checkout and paying for items. On their return Rosie was supported to complete MacIntyre’s annual survey for people who draw on support which enables each person to express their views on the support they receive. Susan was careful to ensure that Rosie understood each question, without leading Rosie to answer in a particular way. Susan is a VW owner and is one of the local group who was delighted when MacIntyre was chosen to be the beneficiary charity of the annual Aylesbury Christmas Cruise which will take place on 20 December
