We believe supporting people to form good quality relationships is a fundamental part of good support. This year, we had some happy news from our Salford Services. Derek and Debbie, two people we support, recently got engaged while on holiday in Benidorm.

Derek and Debbie met some years ago through United Response and immediately hit it off. Support Worker Lynda said: “When they’re together, Derek’s got a big smile on his face.”

Shortly after meeting, the couple began dating and spending lots of time together.

“We’ve been to the Trafford Centre on dates together many times,” explained Debbie.

Derek first expressed his desire to propose in a review. Lead Senior Support Workers Natalie and Sarah supported Derek to prepare for the big moment. He rehearsed at home, practising what to say and how to get down on one knee. He also chose the ring, ensuring he found one that Debbie would like.

While on holiday in Benidorm the time came to pop the question. Derek decided to propose on the beach.

“He opened the box, and guess what he did!” said Debbie. “He put that ring on my finger! I love it so much.”

Ruth, one of the team managers in Salford, said: “I think there are lots of assumptions made about disabled people. People think ‘they’re not able to do that’ when they actually are. We’ll always find a way of making it happen. That’s what this work is about. It’s about what they want, and making it happen for them”.

⮜ Return to the 2023-24 Annual Report