Residents feel valued with winner Wendy
When Barry first arrived at his new Norfolk home his ability to communicate was extremely limited and, distressingly for him, this resulted in extreme challenging behaviour. What a difference nearly seven years has made. His sense of humour now shines through in his banter with staff and Baz – as he likes to be called – greets us with a smile, eagerly explaining how he is looking forward to going out on a car trip. His progress has been so remarkable that earlier this year, the first time for many years, he was able to enjoy a holiday at Pontins in Pakefield – and he is looking forward to going again.
That is the magic of Decoy Farm. Tucked away on the edge of the peaceful village of Browston, near Great Yarmouth, the former farm has been quietly turned into a learning disabilities home of which the whole country is now taking notice. Manager Wendy Jack is proud to have overseen the pioneering project since the Kingsley Healthcare home opened in November 2008 and the first person – Barry – arrived in January 2009. Seven years on, her pivotal role has been recognised at her company’s awards night at the Ivy House hotel, Oulton Broad, where she won the Kingsley manager of the year award.
Ms. Jack, 48, who qualified as a learning disabilities nurse in 1993, enjoyed a varied career before joining Kingsley, latterly working in the NHS, managing a rehabilitation unit for people who had been sectioned under the Mental Health Act. She said: “I was approached to manage Decoy Farm and it immediately appealed to me.
Author: Geraldine Scott
