Bubble. The ongoing Coronavirus pandemic and subsequent restrictions have given this word a whole new meaning. We’ve all had to get used to the idea of limiting our social interactions and sticking to the Government guidelines by creating support bubbles: a close support network between two households, effectively joining them together and allowing close contact between households.
Fortunately, the idea of a support bubble proved particularly helpful to staff at our Marstons Hub building in Ludlow, Shropshire. Marstons Hub houses both Ludlow Foyer – supported accommodation for 16-25 year olds with various levels of support need - and Grain Loft low-level supported accommodation for adults. Staff initially struggled to manage both the Foyer and the Grain Loft wings of Marstons Hub while sticking to the social distancing rules. The decision was made to treat the Foyer and the Grain Loft as a combined household, allowing younger and older residents to mix and socialise in shared living room areas.
The creation of the support bubble was only possible through tight restrictions, in line with Government advice. All external visitors were banned from entering the building and a local agreement was formed with the NHS that allowed all new residents to be tested when they move in. This was especially important to the Foyer, as this vital support service continued to take in new residents throughout the crisis.
But the benefits far outweighed any inconvenience. Foyer and Grain Loft residents were able to take part in quizzes and workshops together, playing board games and socialising. Despite the stresses caused by Coronavirus restrictions, the hard work of Marstons Hub staff and the creation of this joint bubble has helped to minimise the negative impact on residents’ mental health and personal development.
While the age groups are different, the support offered at both the Ludlow Foyer and the Grain Loft can be similar. Ludlow Foyer is a place for 16-25 year olds to live, continue their education or re-enter education, continue training and ultimately gain employment. Up to 13 young people live in the Foyer at any one time, with all residents committing to their own training plan with ongoing support.
The Grain Loft is a service that was introduced to Marstons Hub following the recent redevelopment and extension of the building. Adults aged between 18 and 55 years old with low-level support needs can live at the Grain Loft, supported by a key worker. The Grain Loft could be the stepping stone residents need towards their first independent tenancy.
Both services are supported by dedicated and hardworking staff, who help residents with anything from advice on how to manage money to understanding letters and looking for work or education. Taking steps towards training, education and/or employment is a key focus at Marstons Hub. At the time of writing, Marstons Hub staff had helped 4 current residents attend college and 8 into employment or work placements. Finding these opportunities was particularly challenging as the Coronavirus pandemic and restrictions developed, with fewer colleges and employers willing to take on new staff.
