Choice Lifestyles are pleased to announce the development of their new service ‘Kensington Lodge’, an unparalleled residential provision for adults with complex learning and physical disabilities, situated in Didcot Oxfordshire.

This purpose built service offers individuals with multiple and complex needs the chance to be truly empowered through the use of technology and attention to detail. Set in a prominent community location, Kensington Lodge provides maximum opportunity for service users to have an active presence in their local community. The Lodge offers 8 bedrooms of 17m2 and upwards; ensuring that even the most unique equipment support needs can be accommodated. All rooms are equipped with motion sensor technologies that allow the individual to remotely manage their environment – from curtains to doors and all bedrooms come fitted with full ceiling track hoists for ease of movement. The accommodation offers a choice of bathing options; with Parker baths or purpose designed shower rooms that can support flat bed shower trolleys where required.

Our approach is person centred and completely tailored to the individual; service users are proactively supported to take an active role in shaping how their service is run and focus is placed on the development of all independent living skills; this includes support for all to use the fully accessible kitchen and laundry areas. The communal areas provide varied and homely spaces; encouraging service users to engage with others but offering the opportunity to spend time alone if desired. Communal areas are spacious and light with views over the gardens; which are accessible to all.

We provide holistic support to those within our service and this includes opportunities to access complimentary therapies that focus on sensory stimulation and relaxation; this can be accomplished through use of our in-house sensory room; through external therapists or services purchased into the home.

Our ethos is one of proactive support for individuals and our staff are provided with intensive training and development during their employment with us. Training includes all mandatory areas (as per CQC requirements), specialist training as required to meet health, behaviour or social needs and an in-depth focus on communication systems. We believe that communication is the key to enabling – individuals must feel listened to, heard and consulted on all areas of their lives.

We believe that if people are supported correctly; that they will progress and part of that progression may include moving into a more independent living environment. Kensington Lodge can offer individuals the opportunity to move onto more independent living in flats that are located on site. These flats offer fully adapted 2 bedroom accommodation that is completely self sufficient. Staffing support is then tailor made to the individual and provided by an external domiciliary care agency, located locally.

Kensington Lodge is happy to accept enquiries regarding their service and anticipates that individuals will be able to move during the latter part of 2010.