New Year, New Start for Tom
Tom enjoys volunteering at the local hospital and TomTag work, but he was keen to find somewhere he could meet peers and continue building his social and conversation skills. Like most parents of an autistic or special needs young adult I know how hard it is to find suitable groups and activities.
Tom’s support worker recommended Venture Disability Care a new Health and Wellbeing service for people aged 18 to 35 with mild and moderate learning difficulties and autism, based in Denton, Manchester. Following on from a positive pre-visit last year, Tom agreed to ‘give it a go’.
Yesterday was his first day… A quick check in with his feelings before we set off – “It’s a mixture mum – I’m a bit nervous but also a bit excited!” A quick check-in with my feelings… a familiar knot of worry in my tummy. The knot of worry that comes whenever I leave Tom in a new situation, even though I knew he would be in safe hands.
When I picked him up, he was buzzing! “It’s been amazing mum!” He’d enjoyed all the activities including fitness session, shopping, cooking, and the football chat. I was buzzing too! It’s the best feeling in the world knowing that your child is happy and in a place where he will grow and thrive
Tom will be talking more about his volunteering and experiences at Venture in the TomTag community group over the next few weeks so come over and join if you’re not already a member.
Clare & Tom x