EVIDENCE GATHERING FORM
Candidate Name
Walter Sinclair
Date event occurred
12/03/2025
This piece of work is Unit 28 – Support Individuals to Make Journeys
Supporting an Individual with Cerebral Palsy to Make a Journey by Car
S.M. has Cerebral Palsy affecting mainly his legs but this also has some effect on his upper
limbs. S.M. uses a powered wheelchair for mobility at home. He has muscle stiffness and
spasms in his legs, with reduced fine motor control in his hands. S.M.’s speech can be slightly
slurred and requires attention and patience for successful communication. He also requires
assistance with transfers, positioning, and seating in a vehicle. I have a weekly trip with S.M.
to a local restaurant where he has lunch (20-minute car journey).
Journey Planning and Support:
Pre-Journey Preparation:
For the journey we used a manual foldup wheelchair. I checked this to ensure it is in working
condition before use. I used my own vehicle which is insured for business travel. I confirmed
with S.M. the time, route, and any specific preferences he has (e.g., music to reduce anxiety).
S.M. prefers a familiar route to avoid stress from unexpected changes.
Support During the Journey:
I assisted S.M. during the transfer from his powered wheelchair into the car’s passenger seat.
S.M. prefers minimal support during transfer. I lightly took his hands to provide support while
he positioned himself on the seat. I then ensured he was securely positioned with a seatbelt.
His manual wheelchair was stored in the boot of the car, its compact size ensuring easy
storage.
I then adjusted the car seat to minimize pressure on S.M.’s legs and I checked his positioning
to prevent discomfort from spastisity. I also placed a small cushion (at his request) behind his
neck to support his posture. I also ensured the car’s climate control was set to a comfortable
temperature, as S.M. is sensitive to heat.
During the drive, I engaged S.M. in light conversation to monitor his mood and comfort. I was
alert for signs of fatigue or spasms, as prolonged sitting can trigger discomfort. S.M. is quite
sociable and likes to chat on many topics.
Arrival and Post-Journey:
At the restaurant I ensured a safe transfer to manual wheelchair using minimal support. I also
checked that his wheelchair was fully operational before entering the premises.
In line with S.M’s wishes I provided some support during the meal by cutting the food into bite
sized portions which S.M. can handle with a fork. A straw was also used for any drinks
ordered. Again S.M. likes to chat and we have a good rapport.
EVIDENCE GATHERING FORM
Return Journey:
The same process was followed for the return trip i.e. safe transfer from wheelchair to car and
comfortable positioning in passenger seat of car.
Outcome:
S.M. successfully achieved a social outing, maintaining his independence and social
engagement. The journey was completed safely and comfortably, while I provided personcentered support. I respected S.M.’s preferences and addressed his physical needs.
Regular reviews of the journey plan ensure that any changes in S.M.’s condition (e.g.,
increased spasticity) are accommodated, such as adjusting the vehicle seat position etc.
Key Considerations:
Tailoring support to S.M.’s physical and emotional needs, including managing spasticity and
anxiety.
Clear communication and collaboration with S.M. to promote his autonomy and comfort.
Adhering to health and safety protocols, including manual handling techniques and
equipment checks.
Record keeping of each journey appropriately dated and logged.