Terry's story 

Learning disability no obstacle for Terry

A man with mild autism, who until two years ago found it difficult to communicate or carry out simple tasks has, with the help of health care providers Care UK, turned his life around to the point where he has recently presented the work of Frontline in Essex to the Deputy Prime Minister.

Terry Veness, 40, came to one of Care UK’s supported living houses in June 2004 from a local hospital.  At first he was uncommunicative, unresponsive and unwilling to do anything, but with the support of Care UK and Frontline – an organisation that specialises in helping people with learning disabilities to find work – he has become one of the busiest people on the Frontline programme.

Terry has taken a course in Makaton, a sign language for people with a learning disability, and developed it himself to suit his circumstances.  He is now studying a Communications Through Art course at Thurrock College and works two mornings a week at a drop in café at Sawyers Church, Brentwood.  He is also a highly regarded art technician at Shenfield High School where he gets paints and arts materials ready for the students.

But it is only recently that Terry has managed his biggest achievement to date – working with Frontline and Essex County Council to present the work done for people with learning difficulties by Frontline and the council to the Deputy Prime Minister. 

The presentation gave a picture of what is available in Essex for people with learning disabilities, what is working and how much more can be achieved, as Essex works towards the Beacon Status quality award mark.

Care UK’s house manager, who worked with Terry and his two housemates, said: “Terry was very withdrawn when he first came to us and unable to properly look after himself.  Now he is a very busy man indeed not only working at two jobs, studying for a course, developing sign language and presenting to the Deputy Prime Minister but also mastering everyday tasks such as making his own breakfast and managing his medication.  Terry is a great example of what can be achieved by people with learning difficulties with the right resources and support."