Tarik’s story: Big Give 2024

Thanks to generous donations to our ‘Kick start my life’ Big Give Christmas Challenge 2024, we have been able to support young people with learning disabilities like Tarik as he transitions from education into adulthood.

Tarik was referred to our College Leavers programme by Totton College, with the aim of finding the right support to help him move forward after leaving education. Like many young people with learning disabilities, Tarik was seeking more than just a day service near home—he wanted something that reflected his interests and aspirations, and could lead to a more independent future.

Our team worked closely with Tarik and his family to understand what mattered to him. He had a range of interests, including computer games, martial arts, choir, and a strong desire to make lasting friendships with peers who shared similar passions. He had previously enrolled on a retail and employment course but found it uninspiring and unhelpful in meeting his long-term goals.

Through the College Leavers programme, we developed a tailored pathway that combined meaningful day opportunities with skill-building sessions designed to promote independence. Tarik now attends New Forest Day Opportunities and Winward Day Services, where he takes part in activities such as gym sessions, woodwork, and performance workshops. His favourite activity is the performance session, where the focus is on building confidence, trust, and communication—key life skills that support his overall development.

Tarik is also a member of The Minstead Enquirer news team—a newspaper created by and for people with learning disabilities—which allows him to express himself, connect with others, and build valuable experience.

Although Tarik is still working towards employment, he has expressed a clear goal of finding paid work so that he can support his family and gain financial independence. When the time is right, we will help him explore and access suitable employment opportunities.

Thanks to your support, young people like Tarik are not only discovering their potential—they’re being given the tools, encouragement, and community they need to thrive in adulthood.