When Jade first arrived at Woodseats Lodge in Sheffield in 2019, she was looking for more than just a roof over her head. Living with a personality disorder and anxiety, life had often felt unsettled and overwhelming. She had been through a number of changes in her early life, facing challenges that left her feeling unsettled and unheard at times. What she longed for was something most of us take for granted – safety, belonging, and the chance to grow.
Today, she beams as she reflects: “I like living at Woodseats because it feels like home.”
A journey to feeling settled
Jade’s life now looks very different. She enjoys trips to Costa for iced coffees, going to the cinema, and looking after Domino, her pet rabbit. She’s also a natural creative, helping decorate the dining room in sage green, making handmade signs, and filling shared spaces with warmth.
But her journey here wasn’t easy. Early losses and unsettled placements left their mark, and Jade sometimes struggled to find people she could trust. What makes her story so powerful is how she has turned those difficult experiences into resilience and growth.
“Back then, no one really listened,” she remembers. “Here, the colleagues do. They check in, they care. That’s what makes it different.”
The Strive difference
When Jade talks about life at Woodseats, what shines through is how everyday moments have helped her to flourish. It isn’t about rules or routines – it’s about being heard, feeling safe, and building trust. At ivolve, this way of working is called the Strive model.
Strive isn’t a set of tick-boxes. It’s about creating real homes where people can live well, surrounded by relationships, independence, and opportunity. Jade’s story shows what this looks like in action.
Safety
“Living here makes me feel happy and safe,” Jade says. Colleagues reassure her with kindness – whether it’s a quiet “are you okay?” or simply respecting her note on the door that says she needs a few minutes of space.
Home
For Jade, Woodseats is more than a building. It’s where she feels proud to contribute. She’s turned corners of the house into spaces of warmth and colour. “I like helping make it homely,” she smiles.
Independence
Jade values doing things herself. From cooking to shopping, she makes her own choices. “If I don’t, I’ll become lazy,” she laughs. “And you learn new stuff as well.”
Relationships
Strong connections have been key to Jade’s outcomes. “We’ve got a really good rapport,” says Tammy, Registered Manager at Woodseats. “Jade will always come to me if she needs anything.” For Jade, those consistent, caring relationships are her anchor.
Value and Empowerment
Most powerful of all, Jade is now chair of ivolve’s Strive committee. She advocates for others across our homes, making sure voices like hers are heard and acted on. From planning events to suggesting improvements, she’s helping shape better quality of life not just for herself, but for many others too. “It gives me something to do. I like helping people,” Jade says with quiet pride.
This sense of purpose is no small feat for someone who once struggled to be heard. For Jade, being a champion for others is proof of what’s possible when people are supported and truly believed in.
The Strive model has given Jade a foundation of safety and independence – but above all, it has shown her that her voice matters. And that makes all the difference.
Outcomes that change lives
Her transformation has been remarkable. Where Jade once struggled with self-harm, she now reflects: “I’ve stopped doing that a lot. I feel happier.”
Colleagues have supported her to find healthier coping strategies – going for a walk, spending time with Domino, or simply talking things through. “She’s matured so much,” Tammy says. “She thinks about things now and manages her feelings in a more productive way. We’re so proud of her.”
She has also raised money for Sheffield Children’s Hospital – a place she credits with saving her life when she was young – and discovered new passions, like decorating and even theatre.
But perhaps the greatest outcome is Jade’s sense of connection. “We laugh and we do nice things together.” Jade says.
Tammy agrees: “Jade hasn’t always had that community around her. But here, she’s found it. That’s what makes her feel safe.”
Looking ahead
Jade now feels settled, content, and hopeful about her future. She talks about trying volunteering, perhaps with animals or something creative. She’s enjoying cooking more, decorating more, and growing in confidence each day. “My support team help me to learn more skills and become happier,” she says simply.
What lies ahead may not be mapped out yet, but one thing is certain: Jade has found her voice, her home, and her future. That’s the heart of care and support at Woodseats Lodge – not just meeting needs, but unlocking potential, purpose, and joy.