Life partners – Rosie’s story

Rosie was one of Zetetick’s first tenants. This is a historical account of her move from hospital to a home near her family. Her name has been changed to protect her identity.

A home near her family

When our founder Gary Scott, who was CEO at the time described, first met Rosie she was living in a semi-secure unit in the north of England, and had been there for many years. She was constantly locked up in a tiny room and was regularly physically restrained by male staff. Her behaviour was very challenging and she had no interaction with the outside community. Zetetick was able to facilitate a multi-disciplinary team made up of partners in the local authority, NHS and care providers to place Rosie in one of our houses near family members in London.

The original account described Rosie thirteen years after that move: enjoying her retirement in a Zetetick supported living home and the freedom to go about her daily life in her local community — doing things that most of us take for granted.

Life in a locked ward is no life

Rosie’s experience sits within a wider history of concern about long stays in hospital and people living far from family. On 18 May 2020, Parliament’s Joint Committee on Human Rights heard evidence from families, the Care Quality Commission and NHS leaders as part of its inquiry into the human rights implications of the response to Covid-19. That dated record provides context for the concerns raised when this story was first shared.

Long-term housing relationships

Our aim is to provide stable homes that suit people’s needs and preferences. We work with the person, their representatives, commissioners, landlords and care providers to assess whether a proposed home and support arrangements are suitable. Zetetick provides housing and tenancy support; care partners provide care.

“Life partners” expresses our commitment to lasting housing relationships. The right property, an agreed tenancy and a sustainable care and support arrangement all matter. Availability and suitability need to be established for each referral.

Help someone find a suitable home

For current enquiries, read how to make a referral. Property owners can find out about letting a property to Zetetick. If you would like to volunteer, fundraise or donate, visit Support us.