Raphael Centre

Supported Living

Raphael centre

What we do

Raphael Centre in Bristol opened its doors to people with learning difficulties in 1970, and, in 2002, it became a Supported Living Home for nine tenants with learning difficulties.

Raphael Centre’s unique atmosphere has a holistic, person-centred approach. There is a recognition of the mixed abilities and individual qualities of everyone involved in the living and working of the home and the interdependence of these in the house community. It is our aim to provide a warm and supportive environment where tenants can live as independently and as fully as possible.

Raphael House has nine bedrooms which vary from large bedrooms with washbasins, to self-contained flats and rooms with en-suite facilities. Bedrooms are respected as areas that are private and individual. The communal areas consist of two kitchens used freely by tenants, a large dining room and a cosy piano room where tenants can relax together. We have two garden areas used to play badminton, have barbecues and relax. The gardens are also used for activities such as bushcraft and gardening.

Our Tenants

A little about those we support

Each tenant has their own weekly timetable with activities and jobs varying from colleges, day centres, and city farms as well as voluntary and paid employment. Raphael House has its own pottery with kiln where a local potter comes in to work with tenants on a weekly basis. We also run Eurhythmy sessions, art groups, massage sessions, dance and movement therapies, music therapy and music sessions.

Every encouragement is given to tenants in forming friendships, being self-motivated in pursuing work and leisure activities and enjoying the wide range of facilities available in and around Bristol. We try to support in a caring environment the individual growth of each tenant in a way that encourages self-fulfilment and community involvement.

Holidays are always popular and are taken individually with a staff member or as part of a group depending on individual preferences. They kindle much enthusiasm and provide an opportunity for tenants and staff to enjoy each other’s company in new environments and to have some great
adventures.

Victorian house

The Staff

How we support our residents

Tenants are supported according to their own individual needs and staff always maintain a sensitive awareness for the current and changing needs of each individual. Much thought comes from the staff team, working alongside the wishes of the tenants, when finding ways in which support can best be offered, how much or little staff involvement is needed and what will be most beneficial to the individual.

We have a small staff team which we feel supports greater communication and understanding, and each tenant has their own keyworker to offer greater tailored support. There are generally at least two members of staff working during the day, and one sleeping-in overnight. The staff team has extensive experience and training in the caring field and most have additional qualifications in things such as counselling and holistic therapies.

The Area

Our friendly community

The local area has many facilities shops and transport links, which give the tenants here every chance to live as independently as possible. Many of our tenants play a large role in the local community and have a valued input in many of the shops that they work in and the cafes that they frequent. The community ethos and friendly ‘village’ atmosphere is really something we all cherish.

A railing in Cotham with single gloves
Cooking sausages and beans on camp fire

Healthcare

Making the Healthy Choice

Tenants are given the opportunity to make informed choices about their health and well-being including doctors, diet and alternative treatments, therapeutic activities and life decisions. Tenants are encouraged to use an advocate if they wish. A high quality of life is aimed for on every level and ultimately all who live and work at Raphael House combine to make a unique, fun, noisy, gentle and safe place that nine people (and the staff!) call home.