With Shapes, Rochelle spends three hours a week with one of her two support workers, both of whom she is extremely fond.
Rochelle’s mum, Elaine says: 'Rochelle loves going out and doing things with the girls. It gives her a break from me as much as it gives me a chance to get on with household chores or spend some time with my husband and elder daughter.'
One of her support workers collects Rochelle from school on Thursdays and either takes her swimming, to the cinema or to the play park which is specially adapted for wheelchairs. When it’s sunny, Rochelle also enjoys going for walks by the sea.
Rochelle was born with a partial enzyme deficiency which caused global brain damage. Although Rochelle cannot speak, she can show her emotions through facial expressions and behaviour but she is also unaware of any danger in her surroundings.
Rochelle requires 24-hour care for all her physical needs and will do for the rest of her life. Shapes and Smithers both help take the pressure off her family as, by looking after Rochelle for a few hours a week, it gives them some time to live their own lives.
Elaine continues: 'Rochelle has a great sense of humour and is very affectionate. Everyone enjoys spending time with her and the variety of people she sees and things she does are all great experiences.
It is extremely hard work having a child like Rochelle and I can’t imagine how tough life would be without services like Shapes. Knowing that Rochelle is safe and enjoying herself means I can truly relax and make the most of my precious few free hours.'
