There are moments when you walk into someone’s home and you just know: this is their place.
That was certainly the feeling when we recently spent the day with Joanne, 28, who lives in one of our Supported Independent Living (SIL) homes. Joanne was excited to show us around, and it was wonderful to see just how much she has made the house her own. But it was her bedroom that really told the story.
Her personality was everywhere. Unicorns, stuffed toys, teddies and all the little things she loves had transformed her room into a space that felt completely and unmistakably hers. It wasn’t simply a bedroom she slept in. It was her room, filled with the things that make her happy and surrounded by the familiar comforts and treasures that matter to her.
And she was incredibly proud of it.
“I love my home,” Joanne told us several times.
Joanne loves to colour in – her favourite, unicorns of course.
Taking a tour
She confidently showed us around, introduced us to her friends and happily spent the day creating a video and having her photos taken.
It was a joy to see her move through her home so confidently.
When filming officially wrapped we had the chance to kick back and hang out. It was then we were able to see Joanne and her housemates interact entirely naturally. The bond between them was obvious.
At various times throughout the day, Joanne’s housemates became overwhelmed. (We’re considerate, but hosting a full film crew in your home is a lot for anyone to deal with).
But whenever anyone appeared anxious or concerned Joanne noticed immediately and responded.
She checked they were okay. She showed patience and compassion and was clearly affected by seeing someone she cared about having a difficult moment. It was a lovely reminder that independence isn’t just about having your own room, making your own choices or learning the practical skills that come with living away from your family.
It’s also about belonging. It’s about having friends who know you, people you care about and a place where you feel comfortable enough to be yourself. For Joanne, her SIL home has become so much more than a place to live. It’s a space filled with things she loves, people she cares about and experiences that are helping her grow in confidence.
Afford staff members join Joanne for a midday stroll. One of Joanne’s goals is health and fitness, so walks are a daily occurrence.
Home is where the heart is
And perhaps that’s what stood out most during our day together.
She wasn’t simply showing us her house. She was showing us her life.
At Afford, we believe home should be a place where people feel safe, valued and free to be themselves. A place where individuality is celebrated, friendships can flourish and people can build a life that reflects who they are and what matters to them.
And sometimes, you don’t need to look any further than a unicorn-filled bedroom, a room full of teddies and a young woman proudly showing you around to see what that can look like.
Joanne – one very happy and confident young woman – is thriving at her Supported Independent Living home.
