Living life his way – Martyn, our client, shares what independence means to him

“It’s great living here. I like that I can go out. I like to go all over the place – as far as possible! It’s exciting to see new things. 

I’ve been to Scotland, Wales, and Ireland. I go on the coach, on the train, in a van. I had to make myself small to get on the coach, but we got there in the end! 

I go to London weekly to see some sights. I like to go to London Bridge and I like to go for food. I like sausages, fish and chips, and a Nando’s. 

I get excited planning trips. I’m going to a concert in Reading soon just before my birthday, and I’m going to start saving up for Cornwall next year. I choose where I want to go and who takes me on holiday. This year I went to Dorset. The bed was too hard! Next time, I’ll take my own mattress. 

When I go on holiday or on a trip, I like to stop at a service station for breakfast. I have bacon, sausage, and egg. 

I’m going to Wimbledon again this year. Last year we left at 4.30 in the morning! We were able to wait in a special area. I had strawberries and cream and in the afternoon I was so hungry I ate fish and chips. We were on the telly too! It was lovely. 

It’s great having support here. They help me have a bath and with the toilet and stuff. It’s my home day today so we are going to do my online food shop and then go to the bank. 

I like helping people and being involved. Recently I was in a training video to help people learn how to do manual handling. They looked at me using a hoist and getting into my wheelchair. I helped them a lot. 

I like to induct new staff and show them how to work with me. I’m good at giving them feedback.  

I help check the fire alarm every week. It’s important that everyone can get out if there’s a fire. I also check the water temperatures every week so it’s not too hot. 

Sometimes I help with the staff team meeting. I like to open the meeting for them. I say, “Come in and sit down.” It’s great, I really love it.”