A resident at one of our residential services in Wakefield has been supported to begin volunteering at a local football club in the town. Stephen, who lives at Woodhouse Cottage, has become a member of the coaching team at the Thorne’s U14s, where he has taken on a number of important responsibilities.
Woodhouse Cottage is one of our residential services in Wakefield, which supports men with learning disabilities or autism. In partnership with nearby service Dolphin Lane, the management teams at the homes pooled their resources and decided to sponsor the team.
Stephen loves football, and has a strong interest in games, players and league tables. As a sponsor of the team, Stephen is responsible for choosing Man of the Match, and also has pre-game duties to complete to support the team.
As part of his role, he will ensure the pitch is checked and that the equipment is in good condition and safe to use. In addition, during home games, Stephen will also be working in the tuck shop, making sure that the tables are cleaned and everywhere is tidy.
This opportunity means that Stephen gets to be involved in a hobby he is passionate about, whilst gaining valuable experience and new skills. It is also hoped that the events will help Stephen get more involved in his local community, allowing him to meet new people who share his interests.
Stephen has gotten stuck in over the past few games, and is really enjoying it. He has even treated himself to some new boots and flask for the colder games, so he can enjoy his coffee while he watches. At the team’s most recent game, Stephen turned to his support team from Woodhouse Cottage, and said, “They know me don’t they? I love it.”
“Football is a subject that makes Stephen smile and is enthused by,” said the home manager of Woodhouse Cottage. “This is something that will continually develop for Stephen, helping support his social networking.”
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