A Mothers Perspective: Finding the Right Support

To protect the privacy of this family, identifying details have been removed. The experiences shared are genuine and published with permission.

Before CoOptions

Before my daughter joined CoOptions, I was becoming increasingly worried about her future.

She was socially isolated, her mental health was deteriorating and, as she was no longer able to work, her days lacked purpose. At the same time, her dependence on me was growing and I found myself worrying about what would happen when I was no longer able to provide the support she needed.

I had never previously asked for help, but there came a point where I recognised that both my daughter and I needed support.

“I needed help in order for her to live a fuller life and become less reliant on me, as this was a worry for the future when I am no longer able to help or support her.”

Finding the Right Support

From the very beginning, the CoOptions team provided an exceptional service. They took the time to build trust with my daughter, helping her feel less anxious and more confident about trying new things.

Over time, she learned how to use the bus, explored new social activities and secured a voluntary placement in an early years setting. The CoOptions team also encouraged her to pursue her interests through singing and piano lessons, supported her with budgeting and shopping, and helped her make healthier lifestyle choices.

For the first time in a long while, her life had purpose, structure and new experiences to look forward to.

Building Confidence and Independence

Over the years, I have seen a huge change in my daughter.

Despite her autism and anxiety, she has developed strong relationships with her support workers and grown in confidence. She feels secure knowing she has support in place throughout the week and genuinely looks forward to seeing the CoOptions team.

Most importantly, CoOptions has enabled her to remain living in her own flat, something I do not believe would have been possible without their support.

Their support has also given me peace of mind. It has allowed me to step back, knowing she is safe, supported and continuing to develop her independence.

I cannot praise the CoOptions team enough. They have been outstanding from the very beginning. They are reliable, caring and consistently go above and beyond.

Support When It Mattered The Most

The support provided by the CoOptions team has extended far beyond day-to-day activities.

In 2021, when I was diagnosed with lymphoma, the CoOptions team supported my daughter during my respite hours, allowing me to focus on my own health and recovery. They also enabled her to enjoy experiences she loves, including trips to musicals and overnight stays away from home.

More recently, my daughter’s life changed dramatically after an accident that resulted in life-changing injuries. During her four-month stay in hospital, members of the CoOptions team visited her regularly, supported her through procedures and treatments, and provided invaluable respite for me.

What stood out most was their willingness to simply be there when she needed them.

Today, my daughter receives support five days a week. Following her accident, she now relies on a wheelchair for longer distances, and the CoOptions team continue to help her maintain her independence, manage her home and adapt to new challenges.

The support provided by the CoOptions team has transformed both my daughter’s life and my own, giving us confidence and reassurance for the future.

I would not hesitate to recommend CoOptions to another family.