we promote independence
and support individuals to lead their lives to the fullest and in the way they want
A New Start
Louise Riley (25) has cerebral palsy and has lived independently in one of Paragon’s self-contained bungalows at Centuar Court in Colne for two years.
“I used to live away from home at a residential college and when I finished I didn’t want to move back home as I had got so used to living on my own and doing what I want.” Explains Louise.
Louise heard about Centaur Court and Paragon through her social worker and thought the accessible bungalows would be perfect as she has difficulties with her mobility.
“It’s great living so centrally too,” says Louise. “It takes no time at all to get to the shops or to get a bus into college in Blackburn. It is actually quicker getting the train but I travel to college on my own and am more confident using the bus.”
Louise is studying for a degree in Graphic Design at Blackburn college, as part of a University of Central Lancashire higher education course.
“I am coming to the end of my first year and I am really enjoying it.” says Louise. “We are learning all about images and typography at the moment and its great.” Louise has always had a love for Art and photography and is looking forward to putting her skills into practice when she embarks on a work experience placement next year.
“At the moment the projects we are given are like we are at work. We have to come up with ideas and put the best one into practice. But working at an actual designers will be brilliant.” Louise has to source and secure the placement herself and is looking around the local area for people to take her on. “They will probably have me making coffee and tea!” jokes Louise. “But it is not till next year so hopefully I will have more experience by then.”
“I love having my own place.” says Louise. “I have my own privacy, but also know that Paragon staff are close by when I need them.” Louise receives several hours one to one support and staff are on hand 24 hours a day. “My support can be anything from coming to appointments with me to someone going on a trip with me.” says Louise. “I often choose to take my support in the evenings as I am busy at college in the day. The support I get really depends on what I am doing and what I want.”
This flexible support is shaped around Louise’s needs and like everyone at Centaur Court is enabling her to live independently and to lead a fuller life.