Personalised Care - Simon Stevens

In 2008/9 full-time CSV volunteers helped over 150 people to live independently in their own homes.

Simon is a Disability Consultant and Trainer and has cerebral palsy. He chose full-time volunteers as part of his personalised care package.

Simon told us...

"I wanted to say how much I have appreciated my CSV full-time volunteers.

I have known about CSV for many years but it was only recently that I had a requirement for a volunteer as part of my personal assistance package.

I am an experienced independent disability consultant and trainer. I also have cerebral palsy, which affects my speech, mobility, hand control, balance, continence and sense of humour (in a positive way!).

My volunteers support me with all aspects of leading an independent and active life, from helping me get dressed, to supporting me swimming, to attending business trips with me abroad.

In return, they receive a front line understanding of the everyday experiences of a disabled person, as well as experiencing sharing a home with someone. They learn how I am a person and someone with an impairment that impacts on how others see and treat me.

The CSV project allows me to work with people who would not normally choose to support disabled people. This offers an interesting and unique relationship which provides a positive growth for the volunteer and myself.

The principals of CSV meet well the current government agenda of personalisation which is key to disabled people being seen as equal citizens who make a fruitful contribution to society. I look forward to continuing working with CSV for many years to come."