We work closely with local community organisations to support people across the district, some of these organisations are known as ‘Community Anchors’ - trusted local hubs where people can find information, support, and friendly faces.
At Queen’s Mill in Castleford, we met Alice and her mum, Nicola, during the ‘Cuppa Club’.
Alice, who has additional needs, had recently finished college and Nicola was looking for ways to help her daughter feel more connected and involved in her community. Alice loves arts and crafts, cooking, and being around animals. She had also enjoyed volunteering in a shop previously, and they were keen to explore opportunities to volunteer again.
Nicola was particularly interested in inclusive groups and activities where Alice could socialise and make new friends. Due to Alice’s needs meaning she requires a companion whilst attending activities, they were looking for opportunities they could attend together.
We explored a range of local options together, including:
- Creative Crafts at Manygates Adult Education Centre
- Riding for the Disabled
- Open Country (accessible outdoor activities)
- WAVE Autism Support Group
- All Stars Youth Group
- Local library groups for art, crafts and sewing
- Wakefield Autism Leisure Club
We also helped them explore volunteering by using the Volunteer Wakefield website. This led to a visit to Trinity Mission Food Bank, which turned not to be quite the role that Alice was looking for - but it helped clarify what kind of opportunities might suit Alice best. They’re now exploring a potential role with Age UK Wakefield District, possibly helping at one of their ‘Time for Tea’ social events.
When we checked in with Nicola at a later date, she shared that they had already joined a sewing group at Airedale Library, taken part in some festive activities at Queen’s Mill and Castleford Library, and were planning to join Open Country.
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