Catherine

Shaftesbury John Grooms Court

“I really enjoy being on the Forum and feel it gives me a sense of responsibility and a chance to know what is in all of the services and gives me a chance to get to meet the other people and make friends. I think having a voice for disabled people is extremely important so people don't control our life. I also think it is important to be involved with training opportunities. Some of the skills I’ve gained from the Forum will help me to hopefully do voluntary or paid work in the future.”

Charleen

Conwy Day Opportunities

“I am always happy and like having fun. I enjoy going to the toddler group where I help prepare snacks, join in with a singing session and help put toys away. I like being on the Forum as I like talking to people and listening to their ideas.”

Charlott

Shaftesbury Gateshead services

“I’m a sociable lady who likes to go out and about trying to find new places to visit. I’m friendly and like to spend time with my friends. I joined the forum to meet new people, have a voice and share my thoughts with others.”

Christopher

Shaftesbury Bradbury Court

"I represent Shaftesbury Bradbury Court. I enjoy speaking with other residents outside of our service on Zoom. Fun fact about me: I have a great sense of humour."

DC

Shaftesbury Dolphin Court

"I enjoy the Forum and being part of it as I like meeting friends from different Shaftesbury services and engaging in conversations. I am playing football for Soccability. I did a sky dive.”

Ian

Shaftesbury Wall Street

“I like being on the Changes for the Future Forum as we talk about lots of general things and sometimes I talk about news and events and special occasions. I like lots of cricket, live boxing, Olympics and music. I am very knowledgeable about these! I also like watching European and International TV and radio stations!”

Irvine

Shaftesbury Lisburn, Northern Ireland

“I represent the people supported by Shaftesbury in Lisburn and I enjoy being the champion for that area and that's why I like to meet new friends. We meet monthly to look at the issues important to us, this could be making meaningful change to staff recruitment, health awareness or safeguarding. I like being involved in these discussions. I enjoy meeting other forum members at special events.”

James

Shaftesbury Horizons

“I joined the Forum to learn what they do in other services and do it in my home. I love meeting people from other services and listening to them in the meeting. I also joined to know what is going to happen across the homes. If there will be any major change, this can be discussed in the meeting. I like going out to places, especially going to pubs. I love playing bingo and I like going bowling."

Jonathan

Shaftesbury Ashley Place

“I like being part of the Forum as I enjoy chatting to and seeing other people (my friends) getting the updates they give me and talking about Shaftesbury. One fact about me is that I like going to church.”

Kieran

Shaftesbury York House

“I like being on the Changes for the Future Forum because I enjoy being part of a group and sharing things that are important to me. I love fish and I have my own fish tank at home. I watch lots of fish programmes on YouTube and I like learning about different kinds of fish. I care a lot about my fish. I also really like balloons because they make me happy. I am excited to be part of the Forum and speak up with everyone.”

Laura

Shaftesbury Kenway Court

“The reason I became part of the Forum is because I have a personal investment in Shaftesbury and any changes that happens with the service will immediately have an impact on me. I enjoy the Forum as it allows myself and other people to give genuine feedback and opinion on possible changes within the service. I enjoy being a representative for Kenway Court.”

Philip

Shaftesbury Brookside House

"I’m here to support the house and its residents by strengthening communication through the Forum. As their representative and champion, it is both an honour and a privilege to serve as their voice."

Sharon

Shaftesbury New Court Place

"I joined the Forum because I like speaking up for people and helping each other. I like it when we all get together. In my spare time I love to listen to music!"

Steven

North Down and Ards, Northern Ireland

“I enjoy meeting new people and being able to give my opinion on subjects that are brought up. It helps my communication skills, and I enjoy being part of a team."