Salutem

30/06/22

A sexagenarian with cerebral palsy joined the throngs of festival-goers this summer by attending an outdoor music event in Romsey.

Simon Pugsley, 60, lives at Roman House care home in Basingstoke. During a conversation with carers about what they missed most during COVID, he explained that he’d never been to a music festival before but had always wanted to attend one.

Carers Ashleigh Young and Kirstie Hill worked with him to find an accessible festival he wanted to attend, and they booked the tickets for a day visit to the Legends Festival, which is the world’s biggest tribute show.

Simon particularly enjoyed the performances from Nya King, who appears as Whitney Houston, and UK Queen.

The festival was fully accessible, meaning that, although Simon attended with the two carers, he was able to have independence while there.

Ashleigh Young said: “Simon had never been to a festival before because he didn’t think they would be accessible, but once he said he wanted to go, Kirstie and I were on it, and we found the perfect one for him.

“He was so excited that he told us he couldn’t sleep, which was brilliant. Simon is very independent, but he really enjoyed spending quality time with us. I drove our unit van to Romsey from Basingstoke, and we had a great time together.

“We even lost him in the crowd when he took himself right up to the front of the stage dancing and singing.

“He’s now talking about the next festival he’s going to attend; maybe the Isle of Wight or even Glastonbury!”

Simon Pugsley said: "I had an amazing time and look forward to going to bigger and better festivals in the future."

Roman House is part of Ambito Care and Education, which is part of Salutem Care and Education.

ENDS

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Editor’s Notes:

Salutem Ltd is a UK based residential and healthcare operator and investor with 130 services nationwide.

Within its portfolio are:

• Modus Care specialises in support services for those with Autistic Spectrum Disorder, Asperger’s Syndrome, learning disabilities and other complex needs. It provides small residential facilities for adults as well as bespoke services.
• Ambito Care and Education comprises the former Scope services which include four education facilities, 30 care homes and ten day services.
• Clearwater Care provides 27 services in the Midlands and South East, for complex needs and severe learning difficulties in residential and supported living.
• Pathways Care Group has 54 homes nationwide for adults with learning difficulties.