Independent Living - the positive transition from long term institutional care to manageable independence.

“My life began living with my parents in a small village in County Durham.

I was born with a moderate learning difficulties, however as I got older my problems became worse, as I was diagnosed with a dormant brain tumour which also effected my mental health and I was unable to continue in a main stream school.

During my Primary years I continued my education within the Hospital which I was transferred to, at the age of nine. I was then transferred to a NHS hospital where I was admitted as a long stay patient.

Over the years things improved as did my mental health and I was again transferred to another hospital for treatment. This was to be my home for many years until the Oaklea Trust took over my care in 2003 and my life began to take a more positive turn.

For the first time in my life I opened my own bank account, I had my own bedroom which is part of a shared bungalow with three other ladies. With the help and support of the Oaklea Trust, this was to be the first of many experiences that would give me rights, choice, respect, inclusion and understanding.

The Oaklea Trust and my support staff always ensure that my individual needs are met. My life has continued to improve and I have been given many opportunities and experiences that may have not been offered to me had I continued to live in a hospital.”


If you would like to discuss your requirements to help you achieve your own levels of independent living, please just contact the accommodation team at the Oaklea Trust on 01539 735 025.






Please note: Images are used for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to depict the person(s) described in the content of this article. Any similarity is coincidental. Image copyright Care Images.