Tonia's mum Irene explains why they are so happy they found Acorn

Defying Expectations

"Tonia was born with multiple disabilities: deafness, cerebral palsy, autism and learning disabilities. Doctors predicted that my daughter would not reach her 40th birthday but we have now celebrated her 59th birthday!

Finding the Right Support

She attended all the special schools near to where we live and eventually went away to boarding school in Aberdeen when she was 12 years old. In order to have Tonia living closer to us again, we were fortunate to get a place for her at Acorn Village at the end of May 1993.

A Caring and Creative Community

Finally Tonia was living in a very caring community which enabled her to use her talents, even as a non- verbal resident. Staff encouraged Tonia to communicate via sign language and made sure that sure that she was busy both physically and mentally. Tonia has been and still is involved in a range of activities: weaving, gardening, swimming, cycling, Pilates, art, puzzling and fishing to mention just a few!

Living Life to the Full

She also takes part in grocery shopping for her house and helps in preparing meals and cleaning up. She loves taking part in (and is supported and encouraged by the ever cheerful and patient staff) social activities such as birthday parties, discos, boat trips, as well as sponsored swims and walks. She loves to go on holiday with the family and coming home to us every now and then. Living in residential accommodation in the stunning Essex countryside has given Tonia a certain independence and purpose in life.

A Place to Belong

All Acorn staff involved with Tonia have shown unfailing kindness and professionalism towards her and her family. Tonia is happy to come home but equally happy to go back to Acorn. This means that I no longer worry so much about my daughter’s future when I am no longer here."

Phil Wilden, Head of Day Services, says what Tonia likes to do at Acorn;

"Tonia loves spending time on the looms, creating beautifully detailed pieces of work with great care and precision. She has recently rediscovered her passion for art and now enjoys attending art workshops to explore her creativity further. A keen seasonal gardener, Tonia takes pride in helping to keep the gardens tidy and loves tasting the fresh produce she helps to grow. She’s also very social and never misses a gathering, always joining in with the community spirit at Acorn."