Family support case study

Oliver made contact with AFK back in 2000 when he applied for funding for a powered wheelchair. He was 17 yrs old at the time and was attending a specialist college, he needed a chair that would really meet his needs, as the chair that he was provided with by his local NHS Trust was no longer able to. Oliver's application was successful and his chair was provided under our permanent loan scheme.

Since having his new chair Oliver has moved into independent living renting his own flat, works both in paid and voluntary employment and shortly is due to become heavily involved in the training and teaching of sporting activities - following an award via the Princes Trust.

Over the years Oliver has established a very good relationship with our family support team. He is in contact regularly, sometimes to talk about repairs needed to his chair but at other times just for a friendly chat and a listening ear. Oliver says "The support from the FSS staff is fantastic because whenever I ring they are always there to listen and always have time for me. It's like having an extended family. My chair has allowed me to have a social life, I have made so many friends and I am confident to go out and about on my own just like other people. The chair is so sturdy there is no way it can tip over and that makes me feel very safe and secure".

Oliver has even been down to London to visit AFK on a couple of occasions and will be visiting again soon to attend our now renowned student Christmas reunion. AFK are now considering an application for a new chair for Oliver, this time a faster chair with a rise facility, which is what Oliver needs to enable him to increase his independence ever further.

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Our helpline number is 0845 3000 237 or if you prefer you can email us on support@actionforkids.org

Family support case study

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