Twyford House

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Autistic spectrum disorders, Behavioural support, Learning disability, Mental health

Twyford House is a purpose built house, having recently undergone extensive renovation and redecoration to provide a modern yet homely environment.

Twyford House supports up to eleven individuals, with light and spacious communal areas and an easily accessible rear garden. Many of the bedrooms have en-suite facilities.

The staff team at Twyford House support individuals who have autism and associated complex needs including mental health support needs and behaviours which are considered to be challenging to others.

Every person living at Twyford House is able to plan how to spend their days, with input and guidance from staff as required. People are supported to take part in activities they enjoy from sport and leisure activities to increasing their skills both at home and in the local community. Opportunities for people to try new things and to learn new skills are also high on the agenda, with everyone receiving encouragement to progress themselves.

A young man was referred to the service recently. He has a learning disability and complex mental health needs. After spending many years living in services which unfortunately were not meeting his needs, Twyford House was asked to create a unique service for him. An annexe adjoining the main house was built, and the individual was able to move into his own space where we were able to offer him an individual service which is tailed to meet his needs. He now has a small staff team that worked closely and consistently to meet his individual needs in a person centred way – this being entirely based on what he wanted and preferred. Since moving in to the service he has been able to find himself work, build up relationships in the community and have a fulfilling lifestyle.

The individuals living at Twyford House are supported to meet on a weekly basis either as a group or individually, dependent on the needs and wishes of individuals. These meetings allow people to have input into menu planning, suggesting activities or destinations to visit, planning holidays and also to be involved in the recruitment of any new staff and to join in with company wide events.

Every individual has been supported to choose their bedroom decoration style and adaptations are made as necessary to promote independence.

The large kitchen means individuals are able to prepare their own meals with support and guidance from the chef. The kitchen is always open, meaning people are able to come and go to make a snack or prepare a drink as they choose.

The large rear garden encircles three sides of the property so there is plenty of space for everyone. From a game of football to a barbeque on a warm summers day, the garden is well utilised. Additional sheltered areas have recently been installed meaning people are able to be outside all year round, and the plans for a small vegetable patch are well underway!

Twyford House is located on the outskirts of Dover, within easy walking distance of local shops, the town centre and the sea front. The service also has two vehicles to support individuals to go further a field both on activities and of course to keep in touch with family and friends.