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The approach can be summarised as a combination of "Tough Love" and "Self Help". The programme provides a framework for residents to learn from each other, and change the way they have behaved, thought and felt over many, many years. This requires a strong commitment to each other that depends on honesty, openness, co-operation and mutual support. Building positive relationships with other residents is central. Ultimately, the programme allows residents a chance to come to terms with themselves, and build up their own self-confidence and self-esteem.
The daily routine is strictly followed. All residents are given responsibilities within a clearly defined structure. As residents progress, the level of responsibility increases with more senior residents supervising the work of junior residents. Work revolves around the running of a large community divided into various departments: kitchens, housekeeping, maintenance, gardens and animals, and administration. Whilst the work provides residents with the opportunity to gain new skills, it is interspersed with a range of regular therapy groups.
Therapy groups provide an opportunity to examine behaviour, attitudes and values in the context of day-to-day problems. Many of the staff have been through a rehabilitation programme themselves, and understand the importance of residents talking openly of their feelings, earlier experiences and fears. Through this process, residents come to understand themselves better, gradually assume responsibility for themselves, and begin to establish trust in each other.
Alongside the work and therapy, residents are encouraged to participate in educational opportunities and recreational activities. Most evenings involve compulsory lighthearted activities. The facilities at the Ley Community include a swimming pool and multi-sports pitch, a games room, and a smallholding with a variety of animals that the residents look after.
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I came to the Ley as my life was in turmoil ¬ my son was born a heroin addict, I had lost all my family, went to prison 3 times for burgling my parent’s home, was living on the streets and eating out of supermarket bins. Since being here I have realised I had no friends out there, have been able to find myself and deal with issues I never thought I would ever deal with. I now feel I will be able to live a normal life thanks to the help of people here. I can't thank them enough for helping me get my life back together.
Richard |
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Achieving Change Together |
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