Residents and tenants from across the Trust’s houses came together this morning for a relaxed question-and-answer session with Paul Eeles, giving everyone the opportunity to chat with him, ask questions and raise the things that matter to them.

The group included people from both supported living and residential settings, creating a lively and wide-ranging conversation. Paul listened carefully as residents and tenants shared their experiences, talked about life in the houses and spoke about the activities, achievements and people that are important to them.

Maura opened the session by asking Paul how he had settled in and whether he had enjoyed working with people with learning disabilities. Paul said his first nine months at the Trust had been fantastic, although very busy, with Susan covering for Jess, Jess then leaving, and Emma now taking charge. He added that joining the Trust felt like “coming home”, as he had volunteered here almost 40 years ago.

Others were keen to use the session to share positive news. Amy praised the staff for the support they give, while Julia spoke warmly about how much she enjoys helping in the office. She explained that being involved in meaningful work made her feel valued and, at times, helped her forget about her Down syndrome.

Ben was proud to tell Paul about his recent culinary certificate, and several others were keen to talk about their holidays and the places they had enjoyed visiting. Another tenant took the chance to quiz Paul on his music taste, adding a lighter moment to the discussion, before Maura shared that she had attended Ebrook for 47 years.

Paul thanked everyone for speaking so openly and said he wanted the Trustees to be more visible, more approachable and better known by the tenants and residents.

Sessions like this were an important way of listening directly to people and understanding what life at the Trust is really like.

The Q&A forms part of Paul’s commitment to hold regular sessions with residents and tenants. He held a similar meeting last year, shortly after being elected Chair, and plans to continue creating opportunities for people to share their views, ask questions and build stronger connections with the Trustees.