by Lynne Parsons

I sat down today in front of my laptop to look at our web page.  A pet hate of mine is to look at very ... old news, so I try to keep articles current.

Reading the present articles it felt almost unreal and sugary compared to life with all its scary harshness.

Presbyterian Support has named their disability service "Real People @ the Beacon.  There was a lot of heated discussion about this new branding.  The camp was split with fors and against.  I was in the against camp feeling that it was too naff.  Of course we are real people, not cardboard cutouts.

Every news article on our web page that is written is true, but the Beacon is not a sweet sugary place and neither are the people who attend.  They are often edgy, angry and very, very afraid of what the future holds.

They come in all shapes and sizes, including personalities.  They challenge me and the staff to look reality in the eye and not turn away, but acknowledge their journey which is shockingly hard.

It's very easy as staff in any job to cruise along and stay in safe mode.  We and the clients are challenging ourselves constantly to push the boundaries emotionally, to deal up front and honestly with where they are in their lives.

Family relationships are placed under huge strain when serious illness walks in the door.  To have the courage to talk about painful and private issues gives huge relief and paves the way for change.

It is this gritty integrity that changes people's lives at the Beacon.  The increase in confidence and peace of mind that comes from sharing in a place of trust is what results in the pictures of smiling people that you see on our web page.  It is why people are moved to write poetry.  The force is so strong.

This year we have been challenged to come up with some new fun and innovative activities by the clients.  It is what keeps me in the job and the Beacon's light shining.