Trinity House staff will residents to pursue hobbies and interests within and outside the home as long as these do not affect the quality of life of others living within the home. The support staff will assist such hobbies where this is necessary and desired by the service user. Service users will be encouraged to make choices about what they would like to do in their leisure time. Information gathered on local/leisure resources and forthcoming events by Support staff will be shared with the services users individually or at the service user’ monthly (or as planned) key working meetings.

The aim is to enable residents develop their social skills; working with service users on key areas such as managing relationships, appropriate dressing, appropriate behaviour, assertiveness, self-esteem, health and well being, outdoor activities and managing drugs and alcohol use (safe limits and recovery programmes).

To assist with the home’s social programme, there are a few day programmes organisations, therapeutic work establishments, local library, shops and bars – all located within walking distance from the home.

We recognise that risk-taking is a vital and often enjoyable part of life and of social activity and that some residents will wish to take certain risks despite or even because of their disability. We do not aim therefore to provide a totally risk-free environment, though we take care to ensure that residents are not subjected to unnecessary hazards. When a service user wishes to take part in any activity which could involve risk, we will carry out a thorough risk assessment with that individual, involving if they so desire a relative, friend or representative, and will agree and record action which will appropriately balance the factors involved. Such risk assessments will be regularly reviewed, with the participation of all parties, in the light of experience.

Trinity House staff work closely with each resident to help them learn these essential social skills to equip them and give them confidence for day to day living and maintaining positive community presence.

These include; Assertiveness (protection against vulnerability and abuse), Managing Relationships (family and professionals), Engaging in social activities (cinema, pub outings, amusement centres etc), Communication Skills, Appropriate behaviour (according to needs), paying attention to residents Health and well-being, and providing support in addressing any alcohol and drug use (risk minimisation, safe limits and recovery programmes).