Alan Day, Director of Residential Services and the School Leadership Team recognised that some of the progress young people make at St Joseph’s could quickly become undone when they leave. Plans began to address this and St Joseph’s sought an opportunity to continue to provide the Care and Support that would enable our young people to live their life, their way in the community.
Our Supported Living Houses for adults aged 18 and over, do just that; where all the tenants are supported to achieve and maximise their potential, to lead as fulfilling a life in the community
as possible.
Long Barn is the second Supported Living House to open, the first tenants were existing learners at St Joseph’s who moved in but continued where possible to travel daily to “College” until they left at the end of Year 14. The young adult tenants are able to access care, education and work experience as they so choose. It is a valuable addition to Surrey County Council’s resources for young men and women who require various levels of support as they develop their independence.
The Official Opening of the Supported Living House was celebrated on Friday 2nd December. The guest of honour was Damon Hill OBE; Damon is a Patron of St Joseph’s Specialist School &
College. Tenants and staff at Long Barn helped to prepare for their guests, joining in discussion of what might take place and baking cakes for the reception.
