Background

When Phil* joined The Forum School in 2021, he came from a difficult family background that included trauma and instability. He arrived with long hair, refused basic hygiene such as washing, brushing, and resisted haircuts entirely.

Everyday tasks like ending an activity or leaving a bus could trigger severe distress and unsafe behaviours. Phil avoided going off-site, was not safe in the community, and could not take part in health appointments. Socially, he kept to himself, spending long periods alone in his flat because being around peers was too overwhelming. Phil also had a very limited diet. He lived almost exclusively on Frosties with milk and toast.

He struggled to be around food while it was being prepared for him, and would become distressed if he had to wait. He could not manage to stay at the table once he finished eating, and mealtimes were difficult for everyone.

Over time, with patience, consistency, and the PACE approach, Phil began to build trust with staff. Gentle encouragement, careful planning, and sensory supports helped him cope with transitions.

Structured bus and trip routines, social stories, timers, and rewards turned what were once crisis moments into calm, successful experiences.

What Phils life looks like now:

Transitions & Routines

Works confidently with daily schedules, moving from one activity to the nextwithout issues.

Community Access

Regularly goes on trips from local parks, to Longleat Safari and enjoys longer outings with peers.

Eats out in the community, including burgers at McDonald’s, with no difficulties.

Diet & Food Confidence

Expanded from Frosties and toast to a wide range of foods such as biscuits, chocolate mini rolls, spaghetti, and more.

Prepares his own breakfast.

Actively takes part in “Food Explorers” sessions and has made cookies and biscuits and served them to everyone at the Christmas party.

Hygiene & Self Care

From refusing washes/shower to now having full body washes, washing his hair, and swimming without any issues.

Settled and calm in the pool, no longer needing planned safety actions.

Social Skills & Relationships

Lives happily with a housemate, participates in group activities, and interacts warmly with peers and adults.

Builds strong bonds with staff, from only tolerating a minimal number of adults to working comfortably with many.

Helps construct and set up things in the home, showing teamwork and pride.

Regognition & Resilience

Phil has also been recognised with the Shining Star Award, a public celebration of his resilience and achievements. His social worker summed it up best:

“I honestly cannot believe how far he has come in the four years I have known him. Thank you to you all for your persistence and determination to keep going, when at times it felt near on impossible’’.

The achievement’s goes on and on & Phil’s progress is remarkable. He has gone from a young boy overwhelmed by endings, isolation, and fear, to a confident, socially engaged, independent young person. He continues to surprise everyone with his willingness to try new things, his growing independence, and the joy he now finds in life.

It is with immense pride that we nominate Phil for the CareTech Best Achiever Award. His Shining Star Award, and his social worker recently described his transformation as “simply wonderful” and “a joy to witness.”

Phil’s achievements are not small steps, they represent life-changing progress for a young person whose early life left him with significant barriers. Each new skill, each successful trip, and each moment of connection reflects Phil’s determination and courage. Where once he struggled with even the basics of daily life, he now thrives in the community, embraces new opportunities, and looks toward the future with resilience and joy.

For his unwavering perseverance, his ability to overcome adversity, and the inspiring example he sets for peers, staff, and his wider community, we strongly believe that Phil is the most deserving recipient of the CareTech Best Achiever Award.

*Name has been changed