Spotlight Series – Sean

Sean has been supported by Minstead Trust since 2020. He spends three days a week at New Forest Day Opportunities in the ceramics and animal care workshops, and often takes part in PEDALL, an accessible off-road cycling experience that enables people to enjoy the beauty of the New Forest National Park. Sean also thoroughly enjoys running and recently completed Southampton’s 2.5k Inflatable Fun Run, raising an incredible £1,210 for Minstead Trust! We spoke to Sean to find out more.  

To prepare for the fun run, Sean swam ‘really fast on Tuesday morning’ and then completed the fun run on 11 July, in temperatures that reached the high 20s. Sean said it was ‘very hot’, and when asked how long it took to complete the run in the heat, he said, ‘a very long time.’ After crossing the finish line and receiving his medal, Sean enjoyed an ice cream to cool down. 

But, the heat has not deterred Sean from taking on future runs. He has completed ‘lots of fun runs’ already and still wants to do more. He even wants to run a marathon with his dad one day, and said, ‘my dad took ages – I can beat him.’ 

Running is just one of the ways Sean is building confidence and independence in his everyday life. 

Sean is a keen runner who takes part in Park Runs most Saturdays, as well as football training throughout the week. Through the support of Minstead Trust’s Bridging Programme, he has gained the skills and confidence to attend these sessions on his own, often navigating public transport to get around by himself. Our Bridging Programme supports neuro disabled adults to develop social skills, try community activities, and build a more independent life. Sean also lives independently in one of our supported living houses, and said he ‘has [my] new room now, and everything’s been changed around.’ 

To celebrate Sean’s 30th birthday, he’s going to France with his family, where they’re planning a big party to mark the occasion. Sean is very excited but did say ‘there’s probably no snow because it’s summer!’ 

We hope Sean has an amazing time in France and manages to relax after a busy running season. Well done Sean, and thank you to everyone who supported his fundraising for Minstead Trust!