Creating joyful memories.Our holiday adventure with those we Support
Summer Holiday 2024 Adventure was amazing!!
At The Flame Lily Healthcare, we understand that inclusive holidays play a vital role in enhancing the well-being, independence, and social connections of service users with complex needs. Recently, we had the opportunity to organise a holiday for a group of our service users, and the experience was both inspiring and instructive. The holiday provided a much-needed break and strengthened bonds among the users and staff, reminding us of the joy that comes from shared experiences and the importance of creating opportunities for connection and relaxation. This blog shares the insights and lessons learned from this journey, offering guidance and inspiration for other supported living providers.
Understanding and Addressing Individual Needs
The first step in planning a successful holiday was understanding the specific needs and preferences of each service user. We held detailed discussions with each individual, their families, and healthcare professionals to ensure we had a complete understanding of mobility requirements, medical or emotional support needs, and personal preferences.
By actively engaging the service users in the decision-making process, we were able to select a destination that aligned with their needs, such as accessibility, proximity to medical facilities, and sensory-friendly environments. This personalised approach made the trip more enjoyable and meaningful for everyone involved.
Choosing the Right Destination
One of our service users expressed a strong desire to visit a coastal location. However, her severe mobility issues required careful consideration of the terrain and access to medical facilities. After thorough research and discussions with her family, we chose a destination that offered both wheelchair-friendly beach access and proximity to a well-equipped hospital. Her delight at seeing the sea for the first time in years was a powerful reminder of the impact that careful planning and consideration can have on creating a positive experience.
Ensuring a Safe Journey. Preparation is key
Conducting a comprehensive risk assessment was essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday. We identified potential risks such as medical emergencies, mobility challenges, and sensory overload, and developed mitigation strategies to address these concerns proactively. This included creating emergency plans, choosing accessible accommodations, and establishing quiet spaces to manage sensory sensitivities.
Medical considerations were a top priority. We ensured that all necessary medications and medical equipment were packed and coordinated with local healthcare providers at the destination. Clear emergency protocols were established, with defined plans for various scenarios, and a communication plan was set up to keep the service users' families informed in case of emergencies.
Managing Medical Needs on the Go
During the trip, one of our service users, who has a history of epilepsy, experienced a seizure. Thanks to our prior planning, staff were able to respond swiftly and appropriately, following the emergency protocols established beforehand. We had coordinated with local healthcare providers, and a nearby hospital was alerted and ready to assist if needed. He recovered quickly, and his family, who were informed immediately, were reassured by our prompt and professional handling of the situation.
Engaging with Parents and Guardians.Building Trust and Reassurance
Addressing common concerns from parents and guardians, such as safety, well-being, and comfort, was a key part of our planning process. We proactively implemented detailed safety measures, ensured comfort through tailored accommodations, and maintained ongoing communication with families. This approach helped alleviate concerns, fostered confidence, and ensured a smooth and enjoyable trip for all involved.
Overcoming Family Concerns
Some parents initially expressed anxiety about the trip, particularly regarding safety during travel. To address these concerns, we invited families to a pre-trip meeting where we shared the detailed itinerary, safety plans, and the measures we had put in place to handle any emergencies. Additionally, regular updates during the trip, including photos and messages, provided real-time reassurance to the families, helping to build trust and ensure everyone felt confident and involved in the process.
Preparing for Every Detail
Packing and preparation were meticulously managed to ensure all service users' needs were met. Special items like mobility aids, sensory tools, and personalised comfort items were carefully packed, and a medication schedule was set up to ensure all essential medications were administered on time.
We selected appropriate modes of transport that focused on accessibility features and comfort, ensuring vehicles were equipped with necessary supports and planning frequent breaks to make travel as pleasant and stress-free as possible. Choosing accessible accommodations that met each service user’s needs, such as wheelchair access and sensory-friendly environments, was essential to enhance the overall experience.
Ensuring Comfort During Travel
One of the service users requires a wheelchair and experiences anxiety during long journeys. We chose a mode of transport with accessibility features and pre-arranged rest stops at quiet locations to minimise stress. The staff also provided her with her favourite music to listen to during the journey, which helped keep her calm and comfortable. As a result, she enjoyed the trip without any distress. Her family was grateful for the thoughtful arrangements made to accommodate her needs.
Balancing Routine and Flexibility
Maintaining daily routines while allowing flexibility was key to ensuring comfort and enjoyment. We balanced planned activities with ample rest and relaxation, adapting the schedule as needed to accommodate individual preferences and energy levels. This structured yet adaptable approach allowed for both engagement and downtime, providing a positive and enjoyable experience.
Monitoring well-being was a continuous priority, with staff vigilant in making real-time adjustments to plans to address any issues promptly. By focusing on inclusive social and recreational activities that matched the service users' interests and abilities, we fostered a sense of joy and belonging, making the trip both memorable and fulfilling.
Inclusive group activity at a local art studio!!
Creating Memorable Moments
One of the highlights of the trip was an inclusive group activity at a local art studio. Despite initial hesitation, all the service users participated in sessions tailored to their abilities. Those who had limited hand dexterity were hesitant at first, but with encouragement and adapted tools, they created beautiful items that they proudly displayed. Everyone shared this moment of achievement and joy, strengthening the bond between users and staff.
Post-Trip Reflection.Learning and Evolving
After the holiday, gathering feedback from service users and their families was essential to evaluate the experience. Positive aspects were celebrated, and areas for improvement were identified, helping us refine future trips. By sharing the success stories from this holiday, we aim to inspire and encourage other service users and their families to undertake similar initiatives. These trips not only enrich the lives of participants but also demonstrate the value of inclusive, well-planned activities for individuals with complex needs.
Continuous Improvement from Feedback
Feedback from one family highlighted the need for more information on local attractions that were accessible. In response, we have decided to include more detailed guides and accessibility ratings for attractions in our pre-trip planning materials in the future, ensuring that every activity is suited to all service users.
Our recent holiday experience underscores the importance of thoughtful preparation and collaboration in crafting successful and inclusive experiences. By carefully considering each aspect, from accessibility to activities, we created a memorable trip that enhanced the well-being of all participants. At The Flame Lily Healthcare, we are committed to ongoing innovation in supported living services, and we hope to inspire others to explore new ways to provide enriching and meaningful experiences for those with complex needs.
We invite readers to share their own holiday experiences or inquire about support for similar inclusive trips. Your feedback and engagement can help shape future initiatives and support others in creating memorable experiences for individuals with complex needs.