Life Changing

Hi readers, Emily and Kerry here, and me, Emily, with something else life changing!

For a long time, life felt hard for me. Having a learning disability means people don’t always understand you. It can be so hard to speak up and say what we want. Often it comes out wrong and people think we’re being rude. All this can make us unwelcome and left out, and then become very lonely, with nowhere to belong.

That started to change when I joined Friendship Club at People First Dorset some years ago. When I got involved in their activities, I met loads of lovely people and have made real, lasting friends. The best surprise was meeting a handsome young man there, and he’s now my boyfriend!

Now I no longer feel alone. I’m part of a group of people who either have, or understand what it’s like, to live with a learning disability. As peers, we support each other too. The activities also helped me find my voice. I’ve learned that my opinions matter, that I have the right to be heard. This confidence helps me speak up in meetings, and I event went to Parliament and helped share the impact of our work.

Joining their practical activities helped build my independence too. We often run events in pubs or cafes, as it’s fun and gets us out, safely, in our community. At these we also get to practise using money, ordering food and drinks, talking to staff and taking charge. While that may sound simple to some, it really helps build our confidence.  

When I look back, I see how much my life has changed. I’m more confident. I have more friends, and most of all, feel proud of who I am. It’s helped turn my loneliness into friendship, and shyness into confidence. Thanks PFD!

The writers of the Our View column are supported in their editing by People First Dorset - a charity led and run by people with learning disabilities with support from staff