Nancy has a learning disability and had been living in her supported accommodation for a number of years. She liked living there as it enabled her to visit the local day centre, and she got on well with the staff. However, it was being sold, so Nancy had to move.

Nancy had been shown new supported accommodation near her current home that was similar in many ways. Nancy would still be able to attend the day centre, and the staff team could transfer. Nancy’s mother felt strongly that Nancy should move into residential care, but professionals and carers all agreed that residential care would be too restrictive. She did not need this level of supervision or intervention.

An n-compass advocate was appointed to support Nancy through the process and ensure her wishes were heard and considered. The advocate met with Nancy to talk through the options and ascertain Nancy’s preferences. Through the use of picture cards, Nancy conveyed that she loves horses and other animals; she enjoys going to the day centre and meeting her friends, using the sensory room and having pyjama days watching films. Nancy communicated how the team made her feel safe and said she would like them to support her when she moves. Nancy also said that she loved her Mum and wanted her to come and visit her at her new home. From the pictures, Nancy consistently went back to the picture of a bungalow that looked like her existing home.

The advocate wrote a report highlighting Nancy’s wishes and feelings and all of the things that were important to her, which were taken into consideration and accepted. As a result, Nancy moved to the new house, and her staff team went with her. The new accommodation has a sensory room and horses in the field behind the property. Her Mum changed her opinion when she saw how happy Nancy was and now visits her regularly.