Andrew’s Path to a Happier, Settled Life

Andrew's History

Andrew has a long-standing history of mental health difficulties and was well known to services. In early 2021, he was admitted to an acute mental health ward after experiencing significant distress, including suicidal ideation and severe self-neglect. This period followed the loss of his partner, an event that deeply affected him and contributed to his emotional decline. Andrew's Admission

Andrew moved to Dovecote in March 2021 following an admission to an acute mental health ward. At the time, returning to his own home was not an option due to its negative impact on his mental health. He described it as a place that made him feel “dead” and triggered anxiety. Andrew’s goal on admission was clear: to focus on his recovery, sell his old home, and move somewhere that supported his wellbeing and allowed him to be closer to family.

Andrew's Care

With support from the Dovecote team, Andrew gradually began to stabilise. The structure and routine helped reduce feelings of hopelessness and gave him a renewed sense of purpose.

Over time, he progressed through the medication stages and by October 2021 reached Stage 4. In a key achievement, Andrew went on to reach Stage 6, meaning he was fully managing his own medication — independently ordering from his GP. This marked a major step in his recovery and self-management.

Andrew also made strong gains in daily living skills. He consistently cooked meals, did his own food shopping, and maintained a healthy exercise routine — all without staff prompting. Despite ongoing grief for the loss of his partner, Andrew showed great resilience, continuing to engage with his recovery plan while spending time with family for emotional support.

While Andrew faced occasional setbacks — including anxiety during visits to his old home — these were met with increased support and adjustments to his care plan. His honesty with staff about how he was feeling helped ensure timely interventions, including medication reviews when needed.

Andrew Today

By December 2023, Andrew had achieved what he set out to do. With the guidance of the Dovecote team and his own determination, he:

• Sold his old home

• Secured new accommodation closer to family

• Transitioned to independent living after nearly three years of progress
  

Andrew’s story is one of strength, resilience, and the life-changing impact of compassionate, tailored support. Everyone at Aspire is incredibly proud of how far he has come.