Finding friendship and independence at ECL
At ECL, we see every day how meaningful activities, personalised support and social connections can transform people's lives. Colin and Jennifer joined our Basildon Day Centre around the same time and, despite only attending for a short period, have become firm friends who are well known for their laughter, sense of humour and mischievous streaks.
Colin's story
When Colin's son first suggested attending a day centre, he wasn't convinced.
"I don't normally find it easy going to clubs, socialising and making small talk, so when my son suggested I attend the day centre, first of all I thought, 'Oh crikey!' I didn't like the idea at all. But I did the taster day and it was brilliant. I met my lovely Support Worker Aimee and my new friend Jennifer, and I had a good time."
Following his taster session, Colin wanted to attend three days a week. While funding was available for one commissioned day, Colin and his family explored alternative options and, with support from the ECL team, arranged for him to attend privately on two additional days.
ECL also helped the family explore transport options to enable Colin to travel independently between home and the centre.
Living alone in his bungalow, Colin had become increasingly isolated over the years. Since joining ECL, staff have seen a remarkable change in his confidence and social engagement.
When my son suggested the day centre I didn't like the idea at all. But I did the taster day and it was brilliant.
Colin, ECL Customer
Jess Shorey, Basildon Lead Manager, said:
"When he first came to us, Colin was quiet and not very talkative, but now he's really chatty and confident. He's letting his true personality shine through. His friendship with Jennifer has really brought him out of his shell."
Colin has embraced a wide range of activities, including dog therapy sessions, community outings and life story work. A keen enthusiast of planes and trains, he also enjoys building models. After learning about his interests, staff helped him choose two books through the customer activity budget, which have become firm favourites and helped spark conversations with others.
Even Colin's wellbeing habits have improved. A heavy smoker, he says attending the centre has helped him cut down because he is too busy enjoying himself and spending time with friends to even think about smoking.
"I like meeting people and like that it gets me out of the house. On the days I don't go to ECL I just sit around and do nothing, which is why I wanted to come more regularly."
ECL Support Worker Aimee Anderson said:
"Colin is really good at the cognitive games we play. He has great memory recall and problem-solving abilities."
Colin's advice to anyone considering a day centre?
"Don't be scared. Come to ECL, they're really nice and you'll have a good time."
When Colin came to us he was very quiet. His friendship with Jennifer has brought him out of his shell and built his confidence.
Jess Shorey, Basildon Older People Lead Manager, ECL
Jennifer's story
Like Colin, Jennifer was initially unsure about attending a day centre.
With no close family support nearby, the prospect of trying a new service felt daunting. However, after encouragement from her social worker, she agreed to a taster day and quickly realised it was the right place for her. What began as a one-day placement has since increased to three days a week.
"I love coming here, I think it's great. I was dubious about coming, but the first day I came I knew it was a nice place to be. I can't fault it at all. On the days I come, I can't wait to get here and see everybody."
Following two strokes, Jennifer spent time in hospital and later in residential care before returning home to live independently. Since joining ECL, staff have supported her to build confidence and independence in managing aspects of her daily life.
The ECL team helped Jennifer organise healthcare appointments, supporting her to contact GP about her hearing and eye health. They also raised concerns about her recent weight loss and are working with her social worker to ensure her nutritional needs are properly met.
"I've had a bit of trouble with my eating and I'm losing weight, but the team at the day centre have been helping to sort it out for me. They've been helping me look into things I can eat to get my strength up, and they feed me up when I'm at the centre. The hot lunch is great."
Jennifer frequently expresses how thankful she is for the support she receives and takes great pride in being more involved in managing her own life. She often tells staff, ‘This is like my family’ a statement that reflects the sense of belonging she has found at ECL.
An enthusiastic participant, Jennifer enjoys community outings, singing, dancing and Chair Fit sessions, where she often encourages and motivates others to get involved.
"I was gutted when I had my stroke and couldn't do my regular exercise and drive anymore. Before my stroke I enjoyed swimming, going to the gym and doing karaoke, so I love that I can do exercise and enjoy all the other things I like when I come to ECL."
Support Worker Aimee Anderson said:
"Jennifer gets frustrated that she's not as mobile or independent as she was before, but she's done amazingly well with her recovery. We've seen major improvements in her mobility and independence in the short time she's been coming to the centre. She's very disciplined with her physiotherapy exercises and loves to take the lead in our fitness sessions. She's a real inspiration to the group."
Jennifer's message to others considering a day centre is simple:
"You can't go wrong with ECL Basildon. It's very good. They will help you and look after you."
I love coming here, I think it's great. On the days I come, I can't wait to get here and see everybody.
Jennifer, ECL Customer