Thomas’s Journey with Ategi: Trust, Consistency, and Small Victories

At 19 years old, Thomas’s life has been a rollercoaster of instability—until Ategi Supported Living stepped in. After a chaotic transition from children’s services to adult care, he spent six months without any support, leaving him isolated and overwhelmed. When he joined Ategi just over a year ago, he was scared, disconnected, and struggling to navigate a world that felt unpredictable. Today, his story is one of resilience, trust, and the power of person-centred care.

A Rocky Start: Fear and Frustration

Thomas’s early days with Ategi were tough. “He’d been let down so many times,” says Jayne, his support worker. “Imagine being picked up by strangers after school with no explanation. No wonder he lashed out.” His anxiety manifested in challenging ways: physical outbursts, a fixation on food, and no awareness of danger. He’d bolt toward busy roads to chase a shiny plastic bottle or grab snacks from strangers in cafés. “You had to be six steps ahead of him,” Jayne recalls. “One time, we forgot cookies for him… let’s just say a coffee shop ended up cookie-less!”

Safety was a constant concern. Thomas didn’t recognize risks—like opening car doors while moving—and needed two staff members with him at all times. “It wasn’t about control,” Jayne explains. “It was about keeping him safe while building trust.”

The Turning Point: Consistency and Creativity

Ategi’s team knew Thomas needed more than just routines—he needed predictability and connection . They introduced structured activities, like regular trips to McDonald’s, where he learned to sit calmly and eat. “Routine gave him stability,” Jayne says. “Now, he knows what to expect. That calmness? It’s everything.”

But routines alone weren’t enough. The team got creative, experimenting with activities to find what clicked. Sensory rooms felt overwhelming, but outdoor adventures—like beach trips and cycling—became instant hits. “He loves the beach,” Jayne smiles. “The sand, the waves… it’s his happy place.”

Communication breakthroughs came slowly. Thomas, mostly nonverbal, surprised everyone when he said “Mum” for the first time in years. “It was a tiny word, but it meant the world,” Jayne says. “Those moments remind us why we do this.”

How Person-Centred Care Made a Difference

Behind Thomas’s progress is Ategi’s unwavering commitment to person-centred care and teamwork :

Safety through partnership : A 2:1 support ratio and a car harness ensured Thomas’s safety without making him feel restricted. “It’s about dignity, not discipline,” Jayne emphasizes.

Learning from mistakes : When something didn’t work—like a sensory room—the team regrouped. “Gail, our manager, never just tells us off. She explains why something failed and helps us try again,” Jayne says.
Family collaboration : Regular updates with Thomas’s mum kept everyone aligned. “She’s thrilled with his progress. She says we’re ‘fantastic’—but really, it’s teamwork.”

Looking Ahead: Swimming, Sunshine, and Small Steps

Thomas’s journey isn’t over. Next up? Swimming—a goal paused until the team finds a facility that suits his needs. In the meantime, they’re exploring new hobbies, like art and music, tailored to his interests. “We’ll keep trying things,” Jayne says. “Even if we hit a wall, we’ll find another way.”

Why It Works: “They Go Above and Beyond”

Thomas’s story isn’t about “fixing” him—it’s about understanding his needs and adapting alongside him. “Ategi doesn’t just follow a script,” Jayne says. “They see the person, not the behaviour. That’s why he’s come so far.”

For Thomas, the future looks brighter. He’s calmer, happier, and surrounded by a team that celebrates every victory—whether it’s a quiet meal at McDonald’s or a spontaneous “Mum.” As Jayne puts it: “Consistency is key. When he knows what to expect, he flourishes.”