J
J has been supported by Shropshire Outreach since August 2018.
He likes to use the support sessions for his ‘travel training’ and as a keen train enthusiast he set himself a goal to become independent using public transport, more specifically, trains. With the support of his outreach worker J was building his confidence travelling from Wem to Shrewsbury on the train, learning how to use the ticket machine and learning what to do if things didn’t go to plan. This was all put on hold when the pandemic hit and J was unable to travel, however this opened an opportunity for J to become familiar with his local area, Wem and to build confidence to walk there independently.
After the pandemic J was keen to get back on the train and after more practice and taking steps to travelling independently, he is now travelling from Wem and meeting his Outreach worker in Shrewsbury. J confidently buys his own ticket and knows how to catch the bus if the train is cancelled or delayed. J has continued his travel training to different locations and enjoys trips to various places including Whitchurch, Crewe and Birmingham which is fantastic!
E
E has been supported by Shropshire Outreach since July 2017.
E started with a three-hour support session after college, this was to build his confidence accessing the community as E suffers with anxiety and finds leaving his house extremely difficult. However, over time and with support E has built the confidence to volunteer in a charity shop once a week and has increased his support to fourteen hours a week.
E enjoys his sessions with AWM as he feels he has control, he knows if he has plans but doesn’t feel like he can do them on the day then it’s ok, his outreach workers understand and will suggest something else. E enjoys going for ‘wellbeing walks’ in the countryside where he enjoys navigating maps whilst walking and talking to his Outreach worker, discussing any anxieties he may be experiencing and receiving emotional support.
E’s parents have seen an enormous difference in E and his confidence since being supported by AWM, he is now pushing himself to go to town and browse round shops, he explores new cafes and restaurants with support. Some days he will travel further afield to visit particular castles as he is particularly interested in History.
