Meet Andy, resident at Scotia Heights
A stroke left Andy with difficulties processing information, weakness in the left side of his body, and worsening symptoms of his existing schizophrenia. With support from the team at Scotia Heights, particularly the in-house Therapy Team, Andy has regained some movement so he can take part in hobbies he loves – which has hugely improved his quality of life and independence.

Resident, Andy, sat at the side of the lake fishing

One-to-one support made possible with high staffing levels

Andy came to live at Scotia Heights following a stroke which left him with complex physical and mental health needs.

Andy lives with schizophrenia and has previously experienced episodes of psychosis and disorientation.

When he first moved to Scotia Heights, he’d often attempt to abscond.

Yet the trust he’s built with our team means his schizophrenia is now carefully controlled, and he no longer tries to leave the home.

Person-centred care to improve quality of life

Andy’s care includes sessions with the in-house therapy team.

Our in-house Physiotherapist has secured functional electronic stimulation equipment that’s helping Andy regain some function in his left arm.

The team also helps him take part in activities in and out of the home.

Andy is always keen to get involved, and our person-centred care means he can fully interact at his own pace.

With the team’s support, Andy’s been able to resume interests from his youth, such as fishing.

Andy was a keen rod fisher, but that’s now more challenging for him because of his left-sided weakness.

However, the team has helped him adapt and take up pole fishing, where he’s proven he’s a natural, catching five fish on his first attempt since his accident.

Andy’s also a keen footballer and attends walking football sessions at the local leisure centre.

He enjoys having a kick around with friends and keeping active to maintain muscle function in his legs.

Andy holding a thank you certificate for volunteering

Rewarding experiences to develop life skills

Andy volunteers at Green Door: a community group offering outdoor activities for local people, especially those who are older or disabled.

Andy works at the bike hire centre for three hours a week.

He interacts with customers, looks after the bikes, and has even proudly learned how to fit a bicycle bell.

Andy loves volunteering and is enthusiastic, committed to learning new skills, and his confidence has grown.

Since coming to live at Scotia Heights, Andy’s rediscovered hobbies he enjoys, regained some mobility since his stroke, and set goals for the future.

Despite the challenges he faces, Andy’s increased independence means he’s able to lead a fulfilling life with confidence and happiness.