Laurie has always had big goals. From going to university to launching his own football podcast. With support from Community Brokerage Network (CBN), Laurie was able to navigate Self-Directed Support (SDS), student funding, and the newly reopened Independent Living Fund (ILF) to shape a life that works for him.
Getting started Laurie got in touch with CBN while preparing to study Sports Journalism at university. He knew he needed support for daily routines and getting to campus, but wasn’t sure how everything could fit together. With CBN’s help, Laurie and his family explored how to:
- Use SDS Option 1 – Direct Payment to arrange flexible support
- Combine core SAAS funding with Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA)
- Plan for transport, personal care and independent living
- Connect with payroll services and manage Direct Payments
- Think ahead to long-term goals
“CBN explained things in a way that made sense. They helped take the stress out of it. I felt supported, not overwhelmed.”
Making it work Laurie now employs a small, consistent team of Personal Assistants, giving him the stability he needs to focus on his studies and wider ambitions.
“Having the same support staff made it all smoother. It was more personal and meant I could get on with being a student.”
CBN also supported Laurie through a successful application to the reopened ILF Fund, giving him additional funding to support his longer-term independence and community involvement. Beyond the classroom Laurie is a proud Killie supporter and a passionate football fan. His podcast focuses on the game he loves, and his ultimate goal is a career in sports journalism.
Alongside his studies, Laurie works part-time with CBN, creating accessible content, sharing community stories, and gaining valuable experience (and a bit of extra income) to support his future career. Hear more from Laurie and his twin sister Ellie in our short video case study.
