It was an experience made possible through teamwork and determination, as Matthew, who is supported in Cambridge, attended the People We Support Forum last month.
Matthew has a passion for cooking and enjoys watching sports, especially as a proud Tottenham supporter. Since experiencing a life-changing road traffic accident in 2016, he now lives with a traumatic brain injury and complex care needs. Matthew’s personality and interests continue to shine through, and he really enjoys opportunities to connect with others. Opportunities to meet new people and engage in different environments are incredibly important in supporting his wellbeing and helping him stay connected.
The People We Support Forum is an important initiative within Swanton Care, providing a platform for support representatives from across the organisation to share their views, connect with others, and have a voice in shaping services. It encourages meaningful engagement and ensures people we support remain at the heart of everything we do.
When the opportunity arose for someone from nursing services to attend the forum, the team immediately recognised the value this experience could bring for Matthew. As Owen Booker, Registered Manager, shared: “We’ve wanted someone from nursing services to attend the forum for a while, and Matthew was the perfect person. It was about giving him the chance to be part of something bigger.”
Supporting Matthew to attend required careful coordination. To ensure his comfort and safety, a range of specialist equipment was needed, including a hospital bed with bedrails, an airflow mattress, his adapted wheelchair, and a full sling hoist.
Planning the journey was quite a mission, but the team were determined and worked together to make it happen. As Owen explained, “We carefully considered everything Matthew would need to stay safe and comfortable, making sure we were fully prepared.”
A wheelchair-accessible minibus was arranged for Matthew, alongside a separate van to transport his equipment safely. This meant Matthew could use his own familiar equipment, ensuring consistent, person-centred care throughout the trip.
On the day, Matthew was supported by Owen, Andrei, Edwin, and Sara, Divisional Director – East of England. The team worked closely together to organise, transport, and set up everything needed. “The team at Eden View always work well together,” Owen said. “Everyone knew their role, and we made sure we had everything Matthew needed.”
Sara, Divisional Director, reflected: “It was fantastic to see everyone come together to support Matthew. Moments like this show what can be achieved when we focus on opportunities and work as one team to make them happen.”
There were a few challenges along the way, but the team remained focused and solution-driven. As Owen shared, “We worked through everything together and stayed focused on making sure Matthew had a safe and positive experience.”
Throughout the journey, Matthew’s comfort and experience remained the priority. He travelled in good spirits, enjoying music and conversation with the team. “Matt was having a great time—music on, staff chatting with him—it really set the tone for the day,” Owen shared.
The forum itself proved to be a wonderful experience. Matthew was engaged, observant and clearly enjoying being around others. “I've not seen him smile like that in a long time,” said Owen. “It was fantastic to see him enjoying himself and taking part.”
For the team, supporting Matthew to attend was a significant achievement and an important reminder of what can be accomplished through collaboration and determination. “It showed us that it is possible,” Owen reflected. “It’s opened the door for us to think about doing more things like this in the future.”
Although Matthew may not recall the day due to his condition, the positive impact has not gone unnoticed. “Something has definitely changed in him,” Owen noted. “You can see a difference in his mood, and he’s already looking forward to the next opportunity.”
This experience highlights Swanton Care’s PRIDE values in action—demonstrating passion, empathy, respect, and dedication to ensuring people we support can access meaningful and enriching opportunities.
Reflecting on the experience, Owen shared a message that resonates: “If we can do it, then so can others. Don’t get stuck on the ‘what ifs’—focus on what it could mean for the person. Chances are, they’ll have an amazing time.”
Matthew’s journey is a powerful reminder that, with the right support, teamwork, and determination, barriers can be overcome—and truly meaningful experiences can be made possible for the people we support.
Thank you to everyone who worked together to make this meaningful opportunity possible for Matthew.
