Most of Ebenezer’s life has been spent in hospitals and institutional care. That is until he moved into Squirrels, a Livability residential care home for disabled people in Essex.

Ebenezer, known to his friends as Ebby, has been living at Squirrels since it opened in1992. Ebby, who has learning difficulties, finds life at Squirrels to be very different. A modest house in a quiet residential street, Ebby lives with his flat-mates, Simon and Roy. He enjoys a varied and interesting life at Squirrels, and is encouraged by staff to take part in many activities.

Livability’s commitment to making care homes small and personal makes a huge difference in the lives of people like Ebby. Rather than an institution, Squirrels feels like his home. Along with the other residents, he helped choose the décor and has put up his own photos and posters. And the small size also means that carers can really get to know him, building a relationship of trust.

Ebby is encouraged to use his talents. He attends the local Adult Resource Centre, where he has learnt a variety of creative skills ranging from knitting to rug making.  And when he’s not going to his art club, there’s nothing Ebby likes better than to wander into town with one of his carers for a cup of coffee at Café Mocha. Your legacy could help give more people like Ebby the chance to live more independent lives and make their own choices.

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