At just 17 years old, Sam's life changed in an instant when he was involved in a car accident that left him with a spinal cord injury.
Following surgery to stabilise his spine, Sam spent seven months in a specialist spinal rehabilitation unit in Glasgow, where he began the long process of adapting to life after injury.
Before the accident, Sam had secured a place at the University of Oxford. Although eager to begin university, he chose to defer his studies for a year to focus on his recovery and rehabilitation.
When the time came to start his studies at the University of Oxford, Active Assistance was brought in to support his transition to university life. Through a tailored live-in care package, Sam was able to live independently, focus on his studies and fully embrace the opportunities and experiences that university had to offer.
Building Independence at University
Sam received live-in care for five years, supported by a dedicated team who became an important part of his daily life.
"I had a regular Support Worker, David, when I started university. It was nice to get to know him because he was a similar age group to me. We had a similar outlook on life, and it didn't feel intrusive with him around. He became part of my friendship group."
Initially, Sam required support with personal care, dressing, showering, preparing meals, household tasks and getting around. Over time, however, he became increasingly independent.
Reflecting on his university years, Sam credits his support team with helping him make the most of the experience.
"I feel very lucky with the Support Workers I had because they were lovely, supportive, and they helped me to organise and manage my life."
"They made my life as easy as possible, and I got to know them very well. They also played a massive role in helping me go on holidays and I'm very grateful for that."
Finding Confidence Through Sport
In 2014, Sam discovered wheelchair rugby, a decision that would play a significant role in both his physical and emotional recovery.
"I was sporty before the injury but after it, I hadn't had much of an opportunity to play sport, particularly team sport.”
“My Care Manager at Active Care Group heard about a new club starting near Oxford, so I decided to join. I fell in love with the sport."
The sport provided much more than exercise.
"It helped me to become more active, stronger, and also helped me to make friends with other people with spinal injuries."
As his confidence grew, so did his ambitions.
"Playing rugby has helped me to move forward in myself both physically and mentally. It's built my confidence and allowed me to see the possibilities of equipment I can use."
In 2020, Sam joined the Great Britain Talent Development Team, travelling to competitions around the country and taking increasing steps towards independence.
"In October 2022 I reached a big milestone because I went away without a Support Worker for the first time.”
“It made me start to realise that I didn't need someone around all the time."
Progressing Towards Independence
After graduating, Sam moved to London, where his live-in care continued while he built an increasingly independent life.
Over time, the skills, confidence and routines he had developed enabled him to reduce his reliance on support.
"In the last six months I have been able to do most things by myself because of the techniques I've learnt and the equipment I am using."
Even everyday tasks became opportunities to build independence.
"When it comes to dressing myself in the morning, over time I practised putting my socks on to figure out the best way to do it so that it didn't take ten minutes. Eventually the process became quicker."
Today, Sam lives independently with his girlfriend and their cat, requiring only minimal support.
"It's been an adjustment going from receiving care in the home to living independently but I've really enjoyed it. While it was nice to build great relationships with my Support Workers, I love having my living space to myself."
"I live in a flat with my girlfriend and our cat with minimal support. I only have a Support Worker now who comes round to help with things around the house."
Looking back, Sam sees his journey as one of gradual progress, perseverance and growing confidence.
"I got to a stage where I was ready to be independent. My partner has been really supportive too. It's been a long process, but things started to click into place."
"I was nervous transitioning into living independently and wondered how I would cope, but it's worked out better than I expected, and I haven't had any issues. I'm definitely pleased with how it's turned out."
Sam's story demonstrates how the right support, delivered at the right time, can help individuals achieve their goals, build confidence and maximise their independence.
From supporting him at university to helping him develop the skills and confidence to live independently, Active Assistance was proud to be part of Sam's journey.
