Joshua’s Story: Ensuring His Wishes Remained Central
Joshua is a 30-year-old man with a learning disability. He has always lived at home with his father, where he feels safe, secure and comfortable. Joshua had made it clear that he did not want to leave his family home – it was the environment in which he felt most settled, and where he was able to maintain his routines and sense of independence.
However, when Joshua’s father began experiencing serious health issues, the local authority grew concerned about his ability to continue caring for Joshua safely. As a result, the local authority proposed that Joshua should move into a residential care home. A referral was made for a Care Act Advocate to support Joshua through the decision-making process.
An N-Compass Advocate worked closely with Joshua to ensure that his views, wishes, and feelings were heard and respected. During meetings with professionals, the advocate ensured that Joshua’s wishes remained at the centre of the conversation. They challenged the assumption that residential care was the only viable option and communicated Joshua’s strong preference to stay at home.
Thanks to N-Compass’s support, professionals were prompted to take a more person-centred approach. Rather than proceeding with the proposed move to a care home, all agreed to implement a more comprehensive package of support – tailored home care to assist with Joshua’s daily needs, and respite provision for his dad.
Without advocacy, Joshua would likely have been moved into a care setting against his wishes. Such a move would not only have disrupted his sense of safety and belonging but could also have caused lasting harm to his mental health and fractured his close relationship with his father. The N-Compass Advocate ensured that Joshua’s rights were upheld and that alternative support was explored, helping him stay in the place that mattered most to him: home.
