Richard came to Inspirative Arts looking for a mentor of his age to help him access services and go places and do various activities. The final aim being to increase his independence and perhaps ready him for living in his own accommodation; furnishing him with the skills and confidence to live independently.
Richard has been with Inspirative Arts for over a year and a half now and has come a long way. As part of his health regime, he regularly goes either swimming at the local leisure centre or to the Green Gym (a local charity allotment, that offers a place for people to combine exercise and gardening with friendly faces and a cup of tea). Also in the summer he and his mentor often cycle part of the Tissington Trail, a bike and walking path that winds through the beautiful derby countryside.
To improve his independence Richard just gets lifts to certain activities, like another gardening group he goes to in Nottingham that he gets dropped off to and picked up by one of his mentors. He also makes his own way home from certain activities, for example he plays pool every fortnight for 2 hours and is then left to spend time in town or got to ‘Rethink’ a local charity just outside of town that he can walk to.
He has even had home visits when his family have been away; not just to help him round the house but also to help him get used to having guests and making them feel comfortable. Another thing that is really helping Richard develop is the theatre group he attends. This group is run by Inspirative Arts and uses drama to help our clients develop their emotions and their ability to deal with their own emotions, as well as other peoples. Richard has really enjoyed this group and has even performed in front of a crowd playing James Bond at Inspirative Arts 4th year anniversary party. This was a brilliant moment for him as he stalked across the stage in all his get up, his smile said everything.
In the future Richard is looking to perhaps start a martial arts class to help him develop his confidence and control. He is also looking forward to another Alton Towers trip as he really enjoyed it the first time.
What activities would you chose to do? Do you know anyone who, like Richard, would benefit and grow by being supported by a mentor? Or perhaps you’re interested in our drama group?
Whatever your needs, If you are interested in any of our services please don’t hesitate to give us a call on 01332 208 706.
