Step forward, Rob Welton – a man on a mission to maximise opportunities for social interaction at Shaftesbury John Grooms Court.
The self-contained flats in Norwich are home to 24 adults with physical and intellectual disabilities. As Activities and Community Coordinator, Rob’s aim is to bring people together to be part of the Shaftesbury community in whatever way works for them.
“Human connection is so important. It’s about making sure that whoever wants to participate, can participate,” he says. “There is a tendency to retreat to what is familiar, but we all benefit from getting out from the same four walls. Spending too much time alone can be detrimental to our mental and physical health.”
Newly appointed to the role, Rob is enjoying the personal challenge of finding as many different ways as possible to strengthen the sense of community at Shaftesbury John Grooms Court. There was recently a day out to the beach at Great Yarmouth and more trips are planned to the circus, zoo and theatre. Rob has also instigated what he calls a ‘Monday morning motor’ along a forest trail accessible for wheelchairs.
Taking the time to get to know people, to understand their interests and passions, is the key to building a successful programme of social activities. Rob recently discovered that Laura loves to paint and produce abstract art. One of her paintings now hangs in his office. “I am very supportive of anything creative. It builds self-esteem and improves fine motor skills,” he says.
Wheelchair yoga, board games and cooking classes have been popular. “We’re fortunate to have a brand new, fully accessible kitchen here. We’ve had both savoury and sweet sessions to accommodate different tastes. Some people we support are accomplished bakers, others have more complex needs requiring greater input. The mix of personalities is what makes it fun and interesting.”
Working for Shaftesbury appealed to Rob because he lives local to John Grooms Court and is himself a member of the community. In previous jobs, and within his extended family, he has seen first-hand how people with disabilities can retreat into themselves without sufficient opportunities to interact and find common ground with people.
“I saw this job advertised and immediately liked the idea that I could potentially make a difference in someone’s life. Shaftesbury’s Christian ethos and values resonate with me. Above all, I love mixing with people from all walks of life.”