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MENTAL HEALTH HERO | Josh's Progression Story
On World Mental Health Day 2022, we couldn't be prouder than to share the successful progression of Josh, supported by our Chosen Care Supported Living Team in Gloucestershire.


After a long period of time in hospital and care plan proposals from other providers being unsuccessful, Josh was successfully supported to move into our Teddington Gardens service in July 2021 on section 117 leave.


Josh immediately loved his new room with ensuite which his parents had been welcomed to decorate in readiness for his arrival. And from that moment he began to make good progress as he started to settle into his new home. Within the first few months, his Support Team discovered Josh had musical talent on the electric drums and also as an MC on the mike. But Josh lacked confidence, something his Team was determined to bring to life in Josh - and music was a great way to do this. They encouraged Josh and celebrated his talent at every opportunity, seeing a difference in him most days. They knew that music can be brilliant for mental health and for encouraging confidence


His Registered Manager of the service, Kathy Howitt, and his Support Team, Ebi, Abi, Akeem, Kola, Yufus, Asif, Victor, and Ade became completely dedicated to Josh's progression. From finding errors in his medical notes given on discharge missed by other professionals to going the extra mile every single time his mental health was identified as going into decline, they were there for him.


Josh and his parents with the Teddington Gardens Team after they received and internal outstanding achievement award for their work with Josh.


Because of a certain decline, his family was set to cancel a family holiday to Turkey they had planned as they felt Josh wouldn’t cope and wouldn't be safe to travel. Josh hadn’t had a holiday in 5 years and his parents were desperate to take him away. This became a life goal for Josh and for the Team.


They encouraged all their known coping mechanisms including walking, talking, music, and bike rides - making the most of all his 1-1 time to be active. They created meaningful activities and were always there for him. They had each bonded with Josh in their own way.


We are most delighted to report that The Team worked with Josh and he achieved his goal - in June he enjoyed his first family holiday in 5 years time. His family sent some photos and also a compliment of sincere thanks to the team:


"I just wanted to let you know how good the team at Teddington Gardens have been with Joshua. Joshua's mental health was poor just days before we had our holiday, his father and I were really convinced he'd be sectioned yet again, but the whole team were determined to make sure we got to have our time away. Ebi especially has gone way above what was expected, doing stuff in his own time, building Joshua's confidence, even giving him a call daily when we were away. This meant everything to Joshua. You were checking all was ok even though we were miles away. I have never met a support team like them - they genuinely really do care about Joshua and his wellbeing. We had 8 days in Turkey which is a dream come true, he is in the best care ever."


Josh on a boat in Turkey


Not only did he make it on holiday but Josh is now doing his own cleaning, hangs his washing on the line and rides his bike every day. Big steps forward with more to follow.



Teddington Gardens is the first time Josh has lived in a supported living environment, giving him increased independence to progress. Josh's story is testament to the fact that in the right environment and with the right support, you can really unlock someone's potential and quality of life.


You can read more about the brilliant work of the Chosen Care Supported Living Team here.

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