4th March 2026
We never accept no for the people we support. Barriers don’t exist – only opportunities waiting to be unlocked. We see possibilities and potential for everyone we have the privilege of supporting.
This belief sits at the very heart of Locality Manager, Paul Kitto’s approach to support, and it is not just something he says – it is something he lives every single day.
One Saturday, Paul went into work and noticed Ryan relaxing in the living room, watching a rugby match on television. Casual conversation soon turned into something more meaningful when Paul asked Ryan if he was interested in rugby. Ryan explained that he absolutely loved it, but had never been able to attend a live match. He was worried that his wheelchair wouldn’t fit or that the stadium wouldn’t be accessible, so going to a match had always felt out of reach.
For many, that might have been the end of the conversation. For Paul, it was the beginning of an opportunity.
The following week, Paul made it happen. Ryan went to a live rugby match and had the most incredible day – an experience that went far beyond simply watching a game. He even had the chance to go out onto the pitch, creating a memory that will stay with him for a lifetime. It was a powerful reminder of how listening, believing, and taking action can open doors that once seemed firmly closed.
Paul has worked alongside Assistant Locality Manager, Sue Ewers for over 30 years, supporting people in Discovery. Their partnership is built on trust, shared values, and a deep commitment to the people they support. Speaking with Paul, it is impossible not to feel his passion and determination.
He is quick to credit his team and his long-standing partnership with Sue, describing them as more than colleagues – they are family. Together, they hold a firm belief that nothing is impossible.
Paul thrives on truly getting to know people – their lives, their histories, their hopes, and their challenges. Over the years, many people with learning disabilities and autistic people who have stayed at his short break home have arrived during times of crisis. Some have experienced difficult backgrounds and behaviours of distress, often alongside high levels of anxiety and medication.
Through the right support, a thoughtful approach, and the dedication of a skilled and compassionate team, Paul and Sue have helped many people move forward into their own homes. Outcomes have included reduced support needs, fewer medications, significant reductions in behaviours of distress, and, most importantly, increased happiness, independence, and quality of life.
Despite Sue being of retirement age, her love for the job remains as strong as ever. After working together for so long, Paul jokes that neither of them would leave without the other – a reflection of the bond they share and the strength of their partnership.
When asked about his career and the people he has supported over the years, Paul offered a simple but deeply moving reflection:
I haven’t enriched their lives – they have enriched mine.
It is a statement that perfectly captures Paul’s humility and the genuine respect he holds for the people he supports. His story is a powerful example of what is possible when care is driven by belief, determination, and the unwavering conviction that everyone deserves opportunity, dignity, and a life full of meaningful experiences.