AMY’S STORY
“BEST SPORT SESSIONS WE HAVE FOUND IN 15 YEARS. SHE (FERN) CAME AWAY WITH A BIG SMILE AND ROSY CHEEKS”
Amy heard about the Trusts work in para-sports through local autism and learning disability support groups on Facebook and after reading the information and positive reviews posted from families in similar situations, decided to book Fern, her 14 year old daughter who has Coffin Lowry Syndrome, on our 2020 summer camp.
“We managed to catch the end of the summer camps and the opportunity to try with no initial cost was perfect. We may not have went otherwise as adapting to new environments and changes to routines can be overwhelming but my daughter, 14, loved the sessions immediately.
“Fern had tried many other activities in the past however usually had to give them up which was demoralising all around. There may be more disability awareness in sport these days, however, we have felt embarrassed, helpless and excluded many times. We have been told swimming lessons were totally unsuitable and often had instructors say an activity just wasn’t for us.
“Para-Athletics Club and LD Football offered by Dundee United Community Trust definitely is for us! The coaches are knowledgeable, helpful and approachable, and feedback has quickly been acted on to better meet need and demand.
"I have seen a real difference in my daughter: she changes in to her kit independently, carries her bag and looks forward to going. She is engaged and motivated and is developing confidence in her ability. My daughter has made friends and, to my surprise, instead of the usual me nagging while she drags her heels, she even decided to sprint for a bus after one session!”
“The location is great for us too. We can use public transport pretty much door to door, and it has proven to be more affordable and convenient than trying to attend clubs closer to home – we live in north east Fife. We have relations in Dundee so Sunday lunch has become a regular thing too!”
"From chatting to other parents I have found out about various sources of support. My daughter now attends a Youth Group that supports young adults with learning disability – this would not be possible had we not linked up with another family to travel directly their from the Trust’s Para-Athletics Club on Mondays. All of this is vital for our wellbeing particularly after lockdown put a stop to so much, it saves my sanity!
"I’ve also noticed some participants have now started developing their skills and growing their independence by taking part in coaching and mentoring programmes. It is such a fantastic example to set as it inspires and encourages parents and carers too."
If you would like to know more information about our Para-Sports Club then please contact Ryan Alexander, Para-Sports Development Officer, via e-mail or telephone.
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