When we share stories about people we’re working with, we often describe their time with us as a journey — a journey that may start in the hardest of times but can end with the skills and hope for a stronger future.
On the journey, we sit alongside the person listening closely to their talents and passions and helping them build a future connected to natural networks of support that bring opportunities to take charge of their lives for good.
Kirk’s Help and Connect journey has seen him go on a very literal journey with his connector Michelle — to Coventry train station via a detour to a helpful rail worker and a final stop at his favourite pastime, trainspotting. Which funnily enough, involves watching other people on their own journeys in and out of the city.
Kirk is one of between 80 and 100 people with learning disabilities and autism in Coventry who spend six months with a Grapevine connector each year — first building trust, then growing the lasting confidence, capacity and self-belief required for a stronger future.
Kirk wanted exactly that when he came to the project. Isolated outside of college hours, he dreamt of greater independence in his local community outside of home with Mum.
Trainspotting became the vehicle for Kirk to explore the world on his terms.
Making connections
Kirk and Michelle planned their route to Coventry’s central train station, making a beeline for Avanti West Coast rail worker Daud when they got there — which turned out to be a brilliant connection.
With Daud’s help, they discovered Kirk could access the platform for free to watch the trains whenever he wanted. Daud explained some trainspotters bring a note (see photo) that tells station staff what they’d like to do if they could be shown where to go. Another staff member, Shireen, shared that occasionally people can even make the announcements as trains arrive (with permission)!
Now with a few further visits with Michelle to the station under his belt, Kirk has not only identified his favourite platform (the busiest one of course) and received a few waves from the train drivers, he has found the perfect way to top off a morning out at the station — lunch at Burger King.
With each visit, Kirk’s confidence is growing and it will only be a matter of time until he enjoys his passion for trains independently — in no small way assisted by the friendly, supportive team from Avanti West Coast.
This is by no means the final destination for Kirk but has been a great first leg of his journey. We’re excited to see what he does next.
Click on this link to read more about Help and Connect in Coventry, including case studies and how to contact us.
Our connectors work with people who aren’t receiving any statutory support, including from adult social care services. Help and Connect is commissioned by Coventry City Council.
Help and Connect is part of our Strengthening Lives strand of action which also includes Teenvine Plus and Teenvine Plus Next Steps — both aimed at giving young people with special needs and disabilities the best start as they prepare to transition to adulthood.