TACT North believes in offering a diverse and individual service to the people we support, ensuring fulfilled and integrated lives as part of their local communities. Our range of services covers residential homes, Opportunity and Outreach Services.

Caroline's story

After leaving her parent's house, Caroline moved into the residential part of TACT North's Group Home in Stanningley Road, which she shared with six other residents.

"I had always found mixing with other people quite difficult as I could soon feel left out of things, then I would get upset.

"I had been living at Stanningley Road for about a year when I took the chance to move into my own flat which is situated on the top floor of Stanningley Road. My flat is great, I have visitors whenever I want, I can watch TV or listen to music when I want.

"I did feel a bit lonely in the flat at first. I was living on my own for the first time in my life and staff was helping me to become more independent; now, I am getting quite good at looking after myself.

"The staff at Stanningley Road are helping me to find a job. I have already attended a college course on flower preparation, and I go to TACT's Opportunity Services every week to learn more about flowers. I am hoping by next year I will be able to find a 'proper' job working with flowers.

"I go to dance class every Wednesday evening, recently we put on a show. My life is very busy, now I go swimming, horse riding, I attend college for reading and writing, and of course I have my flat to keep clean and tidy.

"These days I don't get upset quite as much when I meet other people and when I take part in group activities. My confidence has grown and my future is looking good."

Services

Our residential service comprises of five group homes. Each home offers 24 hour support to people with a variety of needs, to enable them to live independently within their local communities. Gone are the activity sheets, as individuals choose their activities and any support that they may require. These demands can make for a very hectic life for the support team who never fail to go that extra mile to make things happen. We are developing a forum for the people we support, to involve them in the decision making process, and where they can express their views in a friendly environment.

The Opportunities Service offers support to a range of people to undertake a variety of activities of their choosing all year round, seven days a week. The service is needs-led and offers adults with a disability the opportunity to access community facilities. Together we plan, implement, and support each individual in his or her chosen activity. These include bowling, horse riding, rambling, outdoor pursuits, cookery, horticulture, music therapy, trampolining, hydrotherapy, local history, photography, animal husbandry, numeracy and literacy, swimming, relaxation, and a sensory room.

The Outreach Service offers support to individuals living within their own homes to develop the skills to live more independent lifestyles. The team works on a one-to-one basis, supporting and empowering disabled people to forge friendships and to become established in the community. We promote personal development, independence, dignity, choice, respect and equality in all aspects of daily life through 'person centred planning.'

Divisional Director for TACT North: Shirley Vaughan