People We Support

We asked some of the people we support to say a bit about themselves and their lives. The services page  has links to more information about each service offered by the Frances Taylor Foundation. 

I am a very independent person who likes to do my own things. Living at Marina means that I have people around to help and support me if I ever need it. I like to help around the home and the staff always thank me for my contributions.

I like working with staff and meeting and greeting people who come to us. This increases my independence, helps my social skills and wellbeing. I go to the Speaking Up meetings to talk about things that are happening in Fernley. I like to get involved with the staff, helping and giving ideas for Fernley. The TIME sessions are good, we learn how to get to a place using the internet. We search for maps and train times to the places. In Independent Living Skills sessions we speak about health. We know what a health passport is. We go to People First meetings. I know the right clothes to wear in different weathers.

I like the way I am treated by staff. I am shown respect and am able to make my own choices in life. This is very important to me, because while living in an institution I was never able to make my own choices. I like the people who share my home, and the staff, and the relationships I have with them. I enjoy participating in events held by the Frances Taylor Foundation, such as sports days and summer fairs. 

I like it here. I go to coffee morning and I’m in charge. I like doing coffee morning with Sister Eileen. And I like colouring and art with Lizzy. I keep my room tidy and staff help. I get to go to Butlin’s with my friends in summer. Everyone is nice. I watch movies with the staff who sleep in. 

I’ve lived here for over twelve years. I love living here and I have my own room and bathroom.

I like to talk to people. Communication is important to me, with people who live here and the staff. I feel I know the manager and deputy managers well and they are nice to me.

I have had the same keyworker since I came to St Mary’s and I am happy with that. He helps me.

I used to go to college to study Business Enterprise. I enjoyed my time at Sutton College. Now I go to drum and music sessions and yoga at Generate every week which I enjoy. Sometimes I will teach yoga to the others.

I like the parties we have at St. Mary’s and going to concerts. I like the 1:1 that I have as staff will take me out on my own, to different places.

It’s very nice here at St. Mary’s. I like cooking, and helping the people here. 

I go to college, and like acting, singing, movement and exercise classes. I’m engaged – my fiancé lives in West London and always comes here on a Saturday when we go out – perhaps swimming, or a pub lunch. 

We have parties for special occasions – birthdays, a summer barbecue, and Halloween, for example.