"I will be forever grateful" - Loren's Story

Loren from Chilwell House has shown incredible determination, resilience and growth — progressing from secure hospital settings to independent living with the support of a team who believed in her every step of the way.

In January 2019, just after her 18th birthday, Loren arrived at Chilwell House, having spent several years in secure hospital settings. At the time, she felt uncertain about her future and never believed she’d one day move beyond those environments.

"When I arrived at Chilwell House, I was placed in the crisis room and required 2 more hospital admissions during my placement."

With the dedicated support of the Chilwell House team, Loren began a transformative journey, making remarkable progress — gradually moving through different rooms within the service and eventually into a step-down flat, a huge milestone toward independence.

"I was able to manage my own personal care needs and I was able to cook for myself, I enjoyed baking, and I enjoyed spending time with other service users and teaching them how to bake. The staff especially enjoyed my cheese twists, these were a hit with all."

One of Loren’s biggest achievements was reaching Level 6 medication management. She managed her own weekly supply, stored it securely in her room, and was responsible for ordering and collecting it from the pharmacy — demonstrating a high level of trust and responsibility.

Education also became a major part of her journey. Loren completed a two-year Health and Social Care course at college with distinction stars and received a university scholarship. During her placement, Loren also undertook a 5-month work placement at a children’s psychiatric school, an experience she found deeply fulfilling and meaningful.

"My first assessment was such a high pass with a first and this is now used for first year students as a template. This is a huge achievement for me."

After years of growth and hard work — and with the consistent guidance of Chilwell House staff — Loren achieved her biggest milestone yet: in April 2024, she successfully transitioned into independent living in the community.

"I have worked so hard with the staff and management of Chilwell House to get where I am today and due to their hard work and dedication towards me, I know I am ready to move on to independent living."

"I would not of been able to achieve this and be where I am today if I had not given the opportunity to have a placement within Aspire Health and Care and I will be forever grateful for this."

Loren’s story is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved with person-centred care, patience and belief. Everyone at Aspire Health and Care is incredibly proud of how far she’s come.