Our Hopes and Dreams campaign celebrates successes that many people take for granted but which can have a hugely positive impact on those in our care.
Find out about below how just some of the individuals we support have achieved their Hopes and Dreams.
Toller Road is a specialist residential service that supports adults with learning disabilities and complex needs, including mental and physical health challenges. Since joining the service, Logan has been working closely with his support team to develop practical life skills through something he’s deeply passionate about – train travel.
With the guidance of his keyworker, Dom, Logan has been learning how to read timetables, plan trips, manage money, and navigate new places safely.
Most recently, Logan planned a trip to Stamford, choosing the destination himself and taking the lead on every detail of the day. With Dom by his side for support, he caught the train, explored the town, enjoyed a meal out, and even picked up a few souvenirs, an experience that has left a lasting mark on him.
“It’s more than just getting on a train,” said Logan. “When I’m out there, seeing new places, I feel free, I feel like me. I used to get nervous, but now I get excited. I’ve learned that I can do things on my own, and that makes me really proud. I want to keep going, keep exploring. I believe in myself now, and that feels amazing.”
Each trip is helping Logan build not only essential skills but also a growing sense of self-belief. These carefully supported outings are empowering him to take ownership of his choices and connect more confidently with the world around him.
“When I got home from Stamford, I couldn’t stop smiling,” Logan added. “I kept thinking, I really did that. It’s like a door opened for me, and now there’s so many more places I want to go.”
Service Manager Stuart Powell praised Logan’s dedication and the personalised approach taken by the team at Toller Road.
He said: “Logan’s progress has been incredible. Every journey he takes is a reminder of what’s possible when you combine individual passion with meaningful support. These trips are more than just days out, they’re stepping stones to long-term independence, dignity and joy. We’re all so proud of him, and it’s a privilege to support him as he continues to grow.”
Cygnet’s “Hopes and Dreams” campaign will continue to share powerful stories like Logan’s across its services, showcasing how person-centred support is helping individuals take control of their lives and pursue what matters most to them.
When Luke moved into Oakwood Gardens in 2019, he was facing significant personal and mental health challenges. Diagnosed with autism, learning difficulties, psychosis, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), his risks were high and his future uncertain. At the time, Luke required 2:1 support from staff in the community due to his difficulties.
But from day one, Luke had a goal: he wanted to go on holiday abroad.
Making that wish a reality required a step-by-step plan, driven by his commitment and the creative, supportive approach of the team at Oakwood Gardens. Staff worked with Luke to break his goals down into small, manageable steps that felt achievable, helping him build confidence, stability, and trust over time.
By 2022, Luke’s progress was remarkable. He had successfully transitioned to 1:1 support in the community, a milestone that reflected his increasing independence and emotional growth.
In 2023, Luke faced a setback when a change in medication affected his mental health. However, rather than letting this derail him, Luke, supported by staff, embraced a new focus on physical health, losing over three stone through healthy eating and regular gym sessions. This enabled him to safely return to the medication that supported his mental wellbeing.
To prepare for his ultimate dream, the team organised short UK breaks to gradually build his resilience to travel and change. These trips proved transformative.
Then, in May 2024, the dream became real. Luke boarded a plane for the very first time and jetted off to Mallorca, accompanied by his service manager and a support worker. From enjoying the sunshine to taking part in the hotel’s evening entertainment, Luke embraced every moment.
The impact was profound, not just for Luke, but for his family. His mother was overwhelmed with emotion and pride at how far her son had come.
Luke returned home with memories to last a lifetime and a new sense of pride and self-belief.
But this is just the beginning. In summer 2025, Luke will embark on his next overseas adventure, this time to Gran Canaria. With a dolphin experience and a full itinerary planned, Luke is already counting down the days.
Leanne Squire, manager of Oakwood Gardens said: “His story is a shining example of the transformative power of personalised support, belief, and compassion, and perfectly embodies the heart of Cygnet Social Care’s ‘Hopes and Dreams’ campaign.
“Luke’s journey is not only inspirational, it’s a powerful reminder that with the right support, even the most ambitious dreams can come true.
“We are incredibly proud of him and the team at Oakwood Gardens for making this milestone possible.”
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Kieran, who lives with moderate learning disabilities and autism and is non‑verbal, has a huge love of sunshine, water and exploring new places. Having never experienced a holiday abroad before, staff at the service were determined to make his dream come true.
His mum Lisa explained: “I was brought up in a family that having an open mind and also broadening the mind, is the way forward and wherever possible a holiday is part of that education and making your world bigger and brighter.
“I wanted that for Kieran I knew that with Cherry Tree House’s positive determined ethos this could be made a reality.”
Kieran thrives on routine and can find long periods of waiting extremely stressful. Yet, with meticulous planning and creative problem‑solving, the Cherry Tree House team, working closely with Kieran’s mum, Lisa, and partners at East Midlands Airport and TUI, removed the typical travel hurdles.
To support Kieran and reduce anxiety around travel, the team put a range of tailored strategies in place. These included fast-track airport routes and the use of a sunflower lanyard to discreetly signal Kieran’s additional needs. In the weeks leading up to the trip, staff carried out several familiarisation visits to the airport – including a full 3 a.m. trial run – to help Kieran become comfortable with the environment.
They also created personalised social-story guides to explain each stage of the journey in a format he could understand. On the day of travel, comfort items such as his favourite electronic devices and a familiar inflatable bean-bag chair were brought along to help Kieran feel safe and relaxed.
Despite an unexpected two‑hour baggage delay in Málaga, Kieran calmly queued with his iPod, an achievement staff describe as “nothing short of transformational.”
“This trip made Kieran’s world bigger and brighter,” said his mum, Lisa. “It proved he can cope in totally new environments when the right support is in place. I’ve never felt so proud of my son, or the Cherry Tree House team.”
Senior Support Worker Lloyd added: “After 17 years in care, I can honestly say watching Kieran swim in the open sea and explore Marbella was one of my proudest moments. The experience has boosted his confidence, tolerance for waiting and overall happiness. We’re already planning the next adventure.”
Home manager Sophie Hill added: “I don’t think we can explain in words the positive impact which this holiday had on Kieran; he achieved things we never thought possible; and since returning home his confidence has grown and his new found skill for waiting has been so evident.”
Kieran’s journey is being shared as part of Cygnet Social Care’s ‘Hopes and Dreams’ campaign, which highlights how specialist support can empower individuals with learning disabilities, autism and mental health needs to lead fulfilling lives and realise their goals, no matter how big or small.
At Walkern Lodge, Umar’s hopes and dreams for better health, independence, joy and dignity are becoming reality every day.
When Umar, who has severe autism and complex needs, arrived at Cygnet Social Care’s Walkern Lodge in Stevenage in January 2022, his life had been marked by repeated moves, unsuitable environments, and health problems that left him fragile both physically and emotionally.
He had been on heavy medication that caused bloating and oily skin and he was struggling with diabetes. He endured seizures which led to frequent hospital visits.
His brother, Saddique, explains: “Those years were so painful. Umar was constantly unwell, in and out of hospital, heavily medicated, and misunderstood. His behaviours were seen as aggression when really, they were his way of coping. I often felt helpless. As his brother, it broke my heart to see him unsettled, bloated, unwell, and always in crisis. I worried endlessly about his future.”
The move to Walkern Lodge was not easy at first. Like many people with autism, Umar found change unsettling, and he was slow to trust. But the team were patient and they spent time learning who Umar truly was, his routines, his rituals, his personality, and his faith.
Saddique said: “What impressed me most was how they took things at his pace. They didn’t rush him. They decorated his room to make it feel like home, encouraged him to get a radio so he could enjoy music, and, most importantly, they respected his beliefs. Jamil, the service manager, supported him with prayer and took him to the mosque. These familiar touches gave him comfort and dignity. For the first time, he felt understood.”
One of Umar’s family’s biggest hopes was that his health could improve. At Walkern Lodge, that dream became reality.
Through careful diet management and consistent support, Umar’s diabetes has been completely reversed. His medication has been significantly reduced and he no longer needs PRN medication. His skin has cleared, the bloating has gone, and he is visibly healthier and more comfortable in himself.
“The change in his health is nothing short of a miracle,” said Saddique. “From being bloated and unwell, he now looks strong and settled. Reducing his medication and reversing his diabetes has given him his life back. It’s something I never thought I would see.”
Another hope for Umar was that he might become more independent. When he first arrived, he needed a 3:1 staff ratio, already a big step down from the 7:1 support he once required at a previous placement. Today, he thrives with just two staff during the day and one at night.
“To think of how much staff he needed before, and how much more independent he is now, is unbelievable,” added Saddique. “That progress shows the dedication of the Walkern Lodge team, and it gives me real hope for his future.”
Umar now takes an active role in his daily life. He chooses his own clothes, and staff help him with dressing. He is supported to take care of his personal hygiene, bringing him greater dignity and a sense of pride, especially before visits with his brother, which they both look forward to.
“These may sound like small things, but for Umar they are huge. It gives him dignity and pride in himself and for me, it’s wonderful to see him making his own choices.”
One of the biggest dreams Umar’s family held was simply for him to be happy and to have activities that brought him joy instead of living in constant crisis.
At Walkern Lodge, those dreams have been realised. The team reintroduced him to horse riding, something he had first enjoyed at school. He still loves it, and it gives him confidence and a sense of freedom. He enjoys long walks, which keep him healthy and calm, and drives in the minibus, which allow him to see new places while feeling secure.
Saddique said: “Before Walkern Lodge, I never imagined he could enjoy these things again. Now he has a life full of activity, joy, and peace. He has routine, he has comfort, and most importantly, he has happiness.”
Faith is also an important part of his life. Being supported to attend the mosque and pray has given him a sense of belonging and peace.
“This has meant so much to Umar and to me,” Saddique explained. “His faith is part of who he is, and seeing the team respect and support that has been a dream come true.
“For years, Umar’s behaviours had been misunderstood. But at Walkern Lodge, the staff recognised that his rituals and repetitive behaviours were part of his autism, not aggression.
“That understanding has made all the difference. Where others saw aggression, Walkern Lodge saw ritual and communication. They knew the right calming words, they respected his routines, and they showed patience. That respect has changed everything.
“Most importantly, Umar is happy, settled, and confident. He finally has a safe, stable place he can call home. The progress he has made is more than I ever thought possible.
“I am so grateful to Jamil and the whole team at Walkern Lodge. They didn’t give up when things were hard. They showed patience, commitment, and compassion. For me, it is a pleasure to work with them to give my brother the best care. I never imagined Umar could progress this much, but Walkern Lodge has shown what is possible with the right care and dedication.
Walkern Lodge has given Umar the dignity, independence, and joy that I had always hoped for him. I truly believe they have given Umar the best chance for a happy and dignified life. They have made our family’s dream come true.”
Umar’s journey is being shared as part of Cygnet Social Care’s Hopes and Dreams campaign, which shines a light on the incredible progress individuals can make when given the right support, patience, and understanding. The campaign celebrates stories like Umar’s — where dignity, independence, and joy become possible — and shows how specialist care helps people and their families turn long-held hopes into everyday realities.
Mark, 39, has lived at Dene Brook, a specialist residential service in Rotherham for those with learning disabilities or complex needs, since 2015. Mark recently achieved his long-held goal of visiting Park Dene, a caravan site in Bridlington, after overcoming much apprehension surrounding leaving the service.
The carefully planned day trip was part of Cygnet Social Care’s new “Hopes and Dreams” campaign, launched to celebrate and support the aspirations of those in its care. For Mark, the visit represented more than just a change of scenery, it was a symbol of his personal growth and the dedication of the team that helped him get there.
When Mark first arrived at Dene Brook, he would isolate himself in his bedroom for long periods of time with his jigsaw. He found it challenging to participate with others or in any social activities.
However, Mark’s life completely changed after staff worked consistently with him, providing unwavering support until a trusting relationship was built. His interests began to flourish and he became intrigued by Park Dene, a caravan site in Bridlington.
To prepare for Mark’s day trip outside of Dene Brook, he worked closely with Zoe Marr, a Support Worker at the Cygnet Social Care service.
Zoe spent two months engaging with Mark, constantly planning and discussing the site to build his confidence for a visit and conquer his unease of having a day out away from Dene Brook. The duo regularly discussed Park Dene and as a way to make him feel more comfortable, Zoe helped Mark virtually explore the area via photos, videos and other internet resources.
To make sure Mark felt at ease for this huge step outside of his comfort zone, the team meticulously planned and reassured Mark about his visit with meal plans and activities laid out.
Zoe said: “I wanted to empower him to make choices and decisions for his fun day out. It was well planned and our trip to Park Dene was a great success.”
During their trip, Mark and Zoe went to the beach, enjoyed a meal out and then a full tour of Park Dene and its caravans by staff who gave Mark a souvenir to remember his trip.
Zoe said: “It was a fantastic day. It was truly wonderful to see Mark socialise so comfortably in a new social setting. I am incredibly proud of his accomplishment and I am so happy that I could be there to support him on this massive step. I can’t wait to see his social skills continue to flourish in the future.”
From not leaving his room to now venturing on day trips with his Support Worker, Mark’s trust and confidence has grown immensely due to the constant support provided by Dene Brook, resulting in this incredible change.
He even said: “It was good. I did it!”
Dominic, who has lived at Langdale House, a specialist residential service, for the past 16 years, was originally admitted for a short-term respite placement. But from the moment he arrived, he felt safe, understood, and supported. So much so, that he refused to leave.
Over the years, Dominic maintained a highly structured routine and was resistant to change. Activities that others might take for granted – such as travelling by car or going to social events – were major challenges for him. For many years, he avoided all group activities, parties, and even minor changes to his daily schedule.
But in the past year, Dominic’s world has opened up in ways that once seemed impossible.
He now regularly takes part in enriching experiences including horse riding, alpaca walking, and donkey visits. For someone who previously avoided contact with others, these interactions with animals have become a joyful part of his weekly routine. Even more significantly, Dominic has begun participating in group activities with his peers, something he had always steered clear of.
“He’s not just attending these activities, he’s thriving in them,” said Laura Davy, Manager at Langdale House. “The transformation we’ve seen in Dominic is truly heartwarming. His smile is constant, his mood has improved dramatically, and the number of behavioural incidents has dropped to nearly zero. It’s a testament to the power of consistent, person-centred care and the trust he has built with our team.”
Dominic’s newfound confidence has led to a series of incredible ‘firsts’, including travelling on multiple forms of transport. A man who once refused to step inside a car now happily uses buses, taxis, trains, and even planes.
One recent highlight was a visit to Flamingo Land. The trip was originally planned so Dominic could visit the zoo, but once there, he decided to try out the amusement rides. To everyone’s delight, he loved them.
He’s also enjoyed a barge boat trip and recently supported a friend in the audience at “Cygnet’s Got Talent,” an event that brought together service users from across the organisation. Despite the noise and crowds, something that would have previously been overwhelming, Dominic coped remarkably well.
But the most emotional milestone came just a few weeks ago. After 16 years of saying “Langdale is my home now,” Dominic agreed to visit his family home for the very first time since moving in.
With the support of staff, he not only made the visit, but enjoyed it so much that he has since returned for a second visit, an experience that deeply moved his family and the Langdale team alike.
Laura continued: “We always work at the pace of the individual, but we never stop believing in what’s possible. Dominic’s story is a reminder that hopes and dreams don’t have an expiry date. With patience, trust and the right support, people can achieve things they never thought possible, on their own terms.”