At Active Prospects, we believe every step forward, is worth celebrating. For the people we support, setting a goal is a brave and powerful step in their journey. Achievements aren’t measured by speed or scale, but by the courage it takes to begin, to try, and to keep going.
Anthony is a young man who we have supported for several years. He lives with LSD, autism, and agoraphobia, making everyday experiences often feel overwhelming. Moments, like stepping into the garden or asking for help, can feel monumental. Anthony has been living in his supported home for over three years, cared for by our dedicated team. Yet, due to the severity of his agoraphobia, he has rarely been able to venture beyond the walls of his annex, and has not left the property since moving in.
For three years, the thought of stepping outside his annex felt monumental for Anthony. Despite the care and community from staff, family, and friends, the grip of agoraphobia often left him feeling isolated. His annex, while a place of safety, also became a boundary he couldn’t cross, until recently!
In January of this year, something shifted.
Anthony signed to staff that he wanted a can of Coke, something so simple, yet filled with meaning. As with many days before, staff gently reminded him that this would mean either waiting for the weekly shop or going to the store. But this time, something was different. After a moment of reflection and processing of the options he had been left with, he began to put on his shoes. It was the first step, towards a possibility he had not felt ready for in years.
Without prompting from staff, Anthony independently continued. Steadily, he made his way to the driveway. With staff walking alongside him, he left the property for the first time since moving in. Together, they walked to the local shop. There, Anthony calmly selected a can of Coke and a packet of sweets, free from panic and not overwhelmed by sensory input as he would typically be. He paid and walked home, proud, and entirely having accomplished something beyond reach six months prior.
That single moment has marked the beginning of a new chapter. For Anthony, it wasn’t just a walk to the shop. It was a breakthrough. A declaration of hope, courage, and what became possible when small steps are given space to grow and nurtured by Anthony and his supporting staff.
His core team has worked closely with him to create a sense of safety and build a strong sense of communication. With these fundamental foundations in place, Anthony has learned to trust those around him and has started to experience deeply meaningful moments through activities he could only dream of six months ago.
By building a genuine relationship with Anthony and supporting the choices he makes, always with gentle guidance, he has flourished. He now feels comfortable taking steps beyond his home and fulfilling his wishes. This journey toward independence reflects Anthony’s growing sense of control, accomplishment, and the knowledge that his voice is truly heard by support staff, family, and friends.
Every step Anthony has taken over the past three years has been made possible by the foundations of trust, communication, and above all, feeling safe.
Anthony’s story reminds progress is about the courage it takes to take one step forward. Each moment of trust and new experience is a testament to his strength and the compassionate support surrounding him.
At Active Prospects, we celebrate these milestones, knowing that behind every achievement is a journey of resilience, patience, and hope. Anthony’s journey has inspire us all, proving that with kindness, understanding, and unwavering support, what once seemed impossible can become a reality.
