FREDDIE’S STORY – SHORT BREAKS & ADULT SERVICES

For Freddie and his family, The Hamlet has been part of their journey for more than 20 years — providing support, friendship and a place where Freddie has always felt accepted for who he is.

Freddie first discovered The Hamlet after a hospital physiotherapist recommended the Toy Library while supporting Freddie’s development as a young child.

“I remember driving along Ella Road feeling so nervous about going into this centre for disabled children, realising that this was going to be my son’s future,” mum Teresa shares.

“I explained why I was there and was made to feel so welcome. Even now, over 20 years later, I’m so glad I made that scary step.”

Finding a Place to Belong

After being introduced to Short Breaks, Freddie began attending Johnson Place Children’s Services on Saturdays.

From the very beginning, it was clear that Freddie and The Hamlet were the perfect match.

“It was love at first sight for both myself and Freddie. I knew I could walk into there no matter how I was feeling, and there was always someone to greet us with a smile.”

For Teresa, The Hamlet was the first place where Freddie was completely accepted.

“They were the first place that accepted Freddie and his disabilities. We weren’t judged or stared at, and I never felt that I needed to justify his behaviour.”

The Hamlet quickly became somewhere Freddie felt safe, supported and understood.

“Starting The Hamlet was like walking into our second home. We both felt so safe, and in our world that is so very important.”

Support Through Every Stage of Life

Freddie’s journey with The Hamlet has continued throughout childhood and into adulthood.

After attending Children’s Services, Freddie transitioned into Adult Services at Ella Road and now attends Marion Road during the week.

These transitions have been important milestones, but Freddie’s trust in The Hamlet has remained constant.

“To see his confidence grow when he moved from children’s services to adult services was amazing. He never hesitated, as if he trusted The Hamlet and what it would be like for him.”

Today, Freddie continues to thrive at The Hamlet.

“The Freddie that now goes to Marion Road is so full of excitement, fun and cheekiness. When I pick him up, I love those few minutes being a fly on the wall, watching him with the staff — so at ease, full of mischief, being able to be himself and loving it.”

Supporting Freddie and His Family

For Teresa, one of the most important things about The Hamlet is that the support extends beyond Freddie.

“What I love about The Hamlet is that they don’t just support Freddie, it is the support they give to us as a family as well.”

She describes the importance of having people around who understand the challenges families can face.

“Life with a disabled child or adult can sometimes feel lonely and isolating. Knowing that the amazing staff are there if needed is invaluable.”

Through The Hamlet, Teresa has also connected with other families on similar journeys, creating friendships that have lasted many years.

A Place Where Freddie Can Be Himself

The Hamlet has played a huge role in helping Freddie build confidence, independence and meaningful relationships.

“The Hamlet is Freddie’s happy place. He has loved it every step of the way.”

Teresa says the team see Freddie for the person he truly is.

“They see Freddie for the real person he is and what he is capable of achieving, not just an adult with a label. To them, he is Freddie and can do and achieve anything.”

“Amazing, Caring, Safe, Nurturing”

When asked to describe The Hamlet, Teresa chose four words:

“Amazing, caring, safe, nurturing.”

Her message to other families considering Short Breaks or support from The Hamlet is simple:

“Come and look around The Hamlet and see what they can offer. Once people come inside, they will get the same feeling of security that I did when I first looked around.”

“The Hamlet offers so much more than can be explained on a leaflet. It’s more of a feeling that you get.”

Freddie’s story shows the lifelong impact of The Hamlet — a place where children, young people and adults are supported to grow, achieve and, most importantly, be themselves.