Reflecting on the Past: The Story of Harley
Harley is an 8-year-old autistic boy who also happens to live with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), experiencing severe learning challenges and non-verbal communication. When Leaf Complex Care became the support provider, the primary focus was on designing a tailored care plan to support Harley and his mother and provide him with the care and support that would meet his social needs.
Harley’s journey began at the age of 2 ½ when he started experiencing autism and severe learning difficulties. As he grew older, additional challenges emerged, including ADHD and non-verbal communication. The tangible closeness between Harley and his mother reveals the depth of their emotional connection. At that time, his mother was experiencing a crisis point and required immediate assistance.
Facing the Challenges
When we first met, Harley’s mother expressed her deep concern for her son’s future, particularly because she had been waiting for support for some time and had a long period of uncertainty. Leaf Complex Care was best placed acknowledging the strain on Harley’s mother and the impact it had on both their lives.
”We were approached by the Wolverhampton social team to assist a family who had hit a crisis point, and the mom needed support with her son Harley on a respite term. After Visiting Mom and Harley, we were able to understand the family’s needs and anxieties.’’ – says Cara T., the Assistant Registered Manager in Leaf Complex Care in Birmingham.
How Meeting the Right Support Enables Positive Outcomes
Leaf Complex Care approached Harley’s case with intentionality, focusing on his strengths and the things he loves. Recognising the need for tailored support, Harley required 2:1 support, followed by a highly experienced support team, introducing our support worker Anold. The team introduced one support worker at a time during initial visits to ensure a smooth transition and avoid overwhelming Harley and his mother.
‘’He can now communicate his needs to staff, although we are supporting him to continue to grow in this area.’’ – says Anold K., Harley’s support worker.
As a constant point of contact for Harley’s mother, our care team and Anold have built a relationship with both of them based on trust and understanding. As trust between Leaf Complex Care and Harley’s family deepened, the team introduced additional support staff. This gradual approach allowed Harley’s mother to gain confidence in the team and provided Harley with a sense of familiarity and security.
‘’Being in the community for social activities with HMG has given mom time to carry out other chores, shopping, attending family gatherings, and, more importantly, time for her well-being.’’ – Anold continues.
The Impact of Meeting Harley’s Needs
With a central focus on enhancing overall well-being and quality of life, Harley started showing remarkable progress through carefully planned activities and person-centred care. Day by day, Harley felt better, and these times encouraged his personal growth and development.
‘’In this short period of time (3 months), we have seen Harley’s communication skills grow and challenging behaviours decrease. Harley also has a greater understanding, and his confidence has grown within the community.’’ – says Cara.
Once the care and support became a source of stability and hope for Harley’s family, he began to engage more actively with the world around him. Now, they often visit amusement parks together and enjoy some ice cream.
‘’At Leaf Complex Care Birmingham, we strive on supporting a family as a whole, not just the individual.’’ – Cara finishes.
Through careful planning, highly skilled staff, and a deep commitment to the well-being of the people they support, the right people and the right care encouraged Harley to break barriers and experience a more enriched life. Moreover, the support provided allowed Harley’s mother to reclaim her life, fostering a healthier family dynamic.
