Darren’s Story: From Small Steps to a Big Change
When Darren first moved to Pinetrees in 2011, he lived separately from the main house in his own annexe. At the time, interacting with other people he lived alongside could be difficult for him, while unexpected change and unpredictability could also be particularly challenging. Darren therefore had a consistent core team around him and initially received 2:1 support.
Building Confidence at His Own Pace
Becoming Part of Everyday Life
A New Chapter at Pinetrees
Living in the annexe meant Darren had his own separate space and did not routinely mix with the other people living at Pinetrees. Over the years, however, his confidence and needs changed, and the team began looking at how they could support him to become more involved in life within the main home.
Building Confidence at His Own Pace
Consistency, routine and clear boundaries have played an important part in Darren’s journey. By 2020, his support had reduced from 2:1 to 1:1, the need for physical intervention had reduced to zero, and he was also being supported by female members of staff.
Rather than rushing such a significant change, the team gradually introduced Darren to life in the main house. He began by spending short periods there with his peers, joining activities and mealtimes, before progressing to group outings in the community.
These small steps gradually became part of everyday life. By October 2025, Darren was choosing when he wanted to access the main house and was even requesting group activities and outings himself. Discussions then began around whether he could make the move into the main Pinetrees home permanently.
A New Chapter
Moving from his own annexe into the main house represented a significant change for Darren, particularly given how challenging unexpected change had previously been for him. The team used reassurance, encouragement, social stories and visual countdowns to help him understand what was happening and prepare for the transition.
In May 2026, Darren made the move into the main home, settling into his own bedroom within the heart of Pinetrees. Rather than living separately, the move meant he could be more closely connected to everyday life in the home and continue building on the relationships and shared experiences he had gradually become comfortable with.
And importantly, it was a change Darren responded positively to. When his progress was reviewed in June 2026, he told the team that he was very pleased with his bedroom and that he“loves it”. The notes also recorded that he had settled well, with no incidents during the transition.
Looking Ahead
Darren’s move isn't simply about changing where he lives within Pinetrees. It represents years of gradual progress, from living separately and finding interaction with others challenging to choosing group activities, spending time alongside others and becoming part of everyday life within the main home.