Meet Ben

One of Ben’s support workers, Cam, was struck down with chest pains and started having a panic attack. Without anyone around to help, Ben picked up the phone and dialled 999 to call an ambulance. He also managed to contact the on-call service.

It was a scary situation, but Ben didn’t panic or feel scared.

“I felt brave,” says Ben, “I’m really interested in First Aid, and I watch a lot of YouTube videos about it.”

When the paramedics arrived, they told Ben he had done really well. His support provider PossAbilities was so impressed, they gave Ben a Hero of the Day award.

They invited Ben to their head office, and he was unaware of the surprise they had for him. When he arrived, they all clapped and gave him a gift voucher, a bar of chocolate, and a certificate.

“My Gran was very proud of me,” says Ben, “I bought a FitBit with the voucher!”

Ben has been living in his home for nearly four years now after leaving his family home to live more independently.

“I’m really into technology and computers. I like gaming - my favourite is Road Blocks. I sometimes play it with my housemate Dan.”

Ben goes to a performance club a couple of times a week, and they are currently rehearsing their show. “I’m singing, and I’m pretty good,” says Ben.

Lockdown wasn’t too bad for Ben; everyone in his house kept busy. Ben took part in lots of activities online and on Zoom. He’s quite proud he learned how to bake, though: “I made a chocolate cake!”

Ben loves holidays and would like to go on as many as he can. Trips to Blackpool are great fun, and he likes to go on the rides, all except for Ice Blast, as he admits: “I was petrified!”