A turn for the worse

After losing his mum and dad within the space of a few years, it’s not surprising that Les’s life took a turn for the worse.

Diagnosed with borderline personality disorder in addition to learning disabilities, Les has struggled with his mental health all his life, but particularly since his parents passing and admits he has found himself in very dark places on a number of occasions.

That was until he started being supported by Caremark Redcar and Cleveland at The Gables, a supported housing scheme we provide care for in Redcar. This support is supplemented by a charity called Real Life Options, which helps people with learning disabilities, autism and age-related needs to have a strong voice and a real choice in the way they live their lives.

“Real Life Options have been with me from the start and my support worker Gemma has been so helpful, and then Caremark started providing care at The Gables and my life has changed for the better,” says Les.

Les says he enjoys living at The Gables and has made some good friends during his time there.

He likes to draw and many of his pictures adorn the communal areas at the scheme. He also enjoys spending time with the Caremark therapy dogs, citing Red as his favourite, gardening, and music (rock and roll in particular).

Les is also quick to praise the Caremark staff based at The Gables – Donna, Linda, and Emma.

After attending our recent carer of the year awards, Les said: “It’s nice to see them getting recognised for what they do because they have made a massive difference to my life.

“They are honest, caring people committed to keeping you safe and well – and I honestly think I wouldn’t be here now without their support.”