MB, who recently moved into Pen Y Coed, has been settling in well and already enjoying opportunities to explore his interests and connect with his new community.
The team worked hard to help MB feel comfortable from the start and get to know the people supporting him.
“We created a video introducing all the staff and included MB’s special interest in emergency services,” explained Deputy Manager Ashley. “This helped him become familiar with the team before he arrived and ease any anxiety he might have had.”
Since moving in, MB has settled in quickly and built positive relationships with the team.
“He enjoys having a laugh with staff, and it didn’t take him long at all to settle,” Ashley said. “We’ve already seen positive changes, and his parents have also shared how happy he seems.”
Supporting people to continue enjoying their hobbies and interests is an important part of life at Pen Y Coed. The team takes the time to understand what matters to each person, helping them stay connected to the things they enjoy and explore new opportunities within their community.
MB has a long-standing interest in emergency services, which has been an important part of his life for many years. At his previous home in North Wales, he was well known by the local fire station, and his passion has been further inspired by his brother, who is also a firefighter. When MB moved to Pen Y Coed, he even received a thoughtful card from his local fire station wishing him well. He also takes great pride in his role as Pen Y Coed’s Fire Marshal, helping staff check equipment and emergency grab bags.
To support MB’s interest, Support Worker Glenn contacted Ebbw Vale Fire Station to arrange a visit — something MB was very excited about.
“He was very happy when Glenn told him he could visit,” Ashley said. “He made sure to bring his Fire Marshal high-vis vest with him.”
During the visit, firefighters gave MB a warm welcome and took the time to show him around the station and equipment.
“The firefighters were amazing with him,” Ashley shared. “They made sure he had time to look at everything and really enjoy the experience.”
MB especially enjoyed trying on the full firefighter uniform and exploring the fire engine, with the lights proving to be a particular highlight.
Afterwards, MB was clearly proud of his visit. “He was very happy afterwards and has been looking at the photos and signing ‘fire’,” Ashley said. “It meant a lot to him.”
Supporting people to follow their interests and take part in meaningful activities plays an important role in building confidence, independence and wellbeing. For MB, this visit not only brought him joy, but also helped him feel more settled and connected in his new home.
“We want MB to know that we’ll continue supporting him to do the things he enjoys,” Ashley said. “This visit helped build trust and showed him that his interests are important to us.”
With MB soon to have access to his own mobility vehicle, the team is looking forward to supporting him to continue exploring his passion and building new connections in his community.
A special thank you goes to Glenn for arranging and supporting the visit, and to the team at Ebbw Vale Fire Station for their kindness, enthusiasm and for making MB feel so welcome.
