3rd November 2025
Early life
Bobby’s early life was far from easy. He experienced abuse as a child and struggled through his parents’ divorce, leaving him without a strong family connection or positive role models. At just four years old, Bobby was exposed to hardcore pornography, shaping a distorted understanding of relationships and love.
As a teenager, Bobby’s confusion about boundaries and behaviour led to serious consequences. At 18, he was arrested and detained in hospital under a Hospital Order with restrictions (Sections 37/41 of the Mental Health Act). He spent the next five years in hospital, engaging well with professionals but struggling to take responsibility for his actions or recognise the harm caused.
When Bobby came to Dimensions, he still faced strict restrictions and required one-to-one support at all times. Trust didn’t come easily, and at first, he minimised his past and deflected responsibility. But his new support team built a foundation of consistency, empathy, and trust – and slowly, Bobby began to change.
Bobby’s anxiety about returning to normal life was immense. He wanted so much to “get things right” that even small decisions felt overwhelming. But step by step, he began to enjoy life again – playing football, joining a pool team, visiting the library, and reconnecting with his mum every fortnight. Before Christmas, he even visited Brighton’s seaside – his first trip to the coast since childhood.
Where Bobby is now
Over time, Bobby and his support team worked together to balance independence and safety, building his confidence and increasing his local connections. His restrictions have gradually reduced, giving him more freedom to live the life he wants.
Today, Bobby shows genuine empathy, not only understanding the impact of his past but also showing kindness and compassion to others.
He is now an Expert by Experience, sharing his story to help train and inspire others in health and social care. His work has taken him across the country, and he has won several awards for his outstanding contributions.
When he’s not working, Bobby loves spending time with friends, travelling, and competing in gaming tournaments.
Reduced support and increased independence
When Bobby’s journey with Dimensions began, he required 24/7 one-to-one support, including sleep-ins – a total of 112 hours each week.
Over the years, his support needs have decreased dramatically. Bobby now only receives nine hours of one-to-one support weekly, with no overnight help.
That’s an approximate 83% decrease in weekly support hours, highlighting not only Bobby’s progress but also the effectiveness of consistent, person-centred care.
In financial terms, the cost of his support has decreased, meaning that for every £100 previously spent on support, only £17 is needed now, while Bobby enjoys significantly more independence, purpose, and quality of life.
Bobby’s journey continues
Bobby’s story is one of resilience, trust, and transformation. With the right support, he’s created a future filled with friendship, freedom, and purpose, and continues to inspire others to believe that change is always possible.