Real homes, for real people

Our homes are thriving and have recently been joined by our eight home, Marika House. They are all in Hampshire: either in Basingstoke or Romsey.

The homes are ordinary houses, with a bedroom for each resident, plus communal areas such as a kitchen and living room. They’re a bit like student accommodation – but much cleaner and tidier!

Residents benefit from a continuous programme of activities that they can enjoy individually or together. These activities are chosen to suit individuals, encouraging them to develop their life skills, cope with daily challenges and become involved in the local community. The activities vary from cooking or visiting the local shops, to horse riding or a day trip to the seaside. Unlike students, however, experienced staff members always supervise our residents.

Praise for every attempt to get it right underpins our philosophy and staff members are trained to follow this rather than ‘nagging’ when people get things wrong or make mistakes. This approach of providing positive behaviour support ensures that we praise appropriate behaviour and achievements, and leads to repetition of newly learnt skills. Choice is also seen as central to our work, so that everyone has the opportunity to have some control over their life. That includes choice of clothes, activities, food and drink, music, and trips out, and is seen in every part of everyday life at Liaise.

Each individual has their own bedroom that they can personalise in whatever way they wish, for example with ornaments, posters, cushions, music players, computers and TV. Or they can leave it completely uncluttered, if that’s what they prefer.