Jenny Case Study

Background

Jenny has a diagnosis of a moderate learning disability and autism. She is non-verbal and communicates through gestures and visual supports. Although she can read, she does not write or use sign language. In the past, Jenny was able to express her thoughts and emotions through Facilitated Communication (FC) using an iPad with her mother’s support. Her words offer an  insight into her inner world:

“I am different… I am not able to use my voice… I want people to understand and accept my quite different way of thinking and my quite different way of life. I am happy to be autistic.”

Before moving to Marcus & Marcus, lived with her mother and sisters. As her anxiety increased, she began displaying distressing behaviours such as self-injury and obsessive routines around shopping and collecting leaflets. She was eventually excluded from local day centres, and family life became strained. 

After several moves, including to shared accommodation and later a self-contained flat, it became clear that Jenny needed a more personalised environment designed around her sensory and emotional needs.

Interventions

The Marcus & Marcus team worked closely with Jenny’s family to better understand the causes of her anxiety and how to build trust and consistency. The right team was crucial, staff were selected for their patience, confidence, creativity, and commitment to autism-friendly practice.

Jenny later moved into her own home, a spacious three-bedroom house with a large garden. Together with her family, we designed an environment and support plan focused on reducing anxiety and promoting wellbeing:

• Sensory-friendly environment:
  A dedicated sensory room with soft lighting and beanbags, a jacuzzi in the garden for daily use, and outdoor swings and seating for relaxation.
• Personal space and structure:
  Open-plan living areas, her own bedroom (which she helped arrange), and personalised visual schedules to support predictability and reduce anxiety.
• Proactive emotional regulation:
  Staff introduced social stories, countdown calendars, and visual aids to help Jenny prepare for changes and transitions.
• Positive behaviour support:
  The focus shifted from reacting to challenging behaviour to understanding triggers, teaching coping strategies, and celebrating achievements.

Outcomes

Since settling into her new home, Jenny’s life has transformed. The combination of the right environment, consistent staff, and a proactive approach has led to significant improvements in her wellbeing and independence:

• Reduced anxiety and self-harm:
  The frequency and severity of self-injury have decreased dramatically. Her home no longer requires padded walls, reflecting her improved emotional regulation.
• Improved communication and relationships:
  Jenny uses gestures and visual supports to express herself and now enjoys positive, regular contact with her family. Her mother and sisters visit weekly for meals and activities, and her father visits fortnightly, often bringing the family puppy.
• Increased confidence and independence:
  Jenny confidently manages her routines, helps with daily living tasks, and has successfully adapted to unexpected changes with support from visual tools and consistent routines.
• Enhanced engagement and focus:
  Jenny participates in community activities including music sessions, swimming, and walks. Her concentration has improved, and she now completes puzzles and intricate 3D models, proudly displaying them in her home.
• Quality of life and happiness:
  Jenny is calmer, happier, and more connected to those around her. Her family recently invited her home for Easter, her first overnight visit since moving into supported living, marking a powerful moment of trust and progression.

Today, Jenny continues to thrive in an environment that supports her individuality, celebrates her achievements, and promotes her autonomy.