Out & About posted on October 19, 2009 14:20
As soon as she turned 16, Rebecca Walton started to support disabled children and young people, volunteering as an enabler for Out & About. As an enabler, Rebecca supports disabled children and young people to take part in everyday, local leisure activities which they would otherwise miss out on.
Rebecca has first hand experience of supporting disabled people - she has a brother with a disability and this has strengthened her belief that all disabled people should be entitled to the same opportunities as those without disabilities.
Whilst directly supporting disabled children in their choice of leisure activity, Rebecca has been able to share her knowledge, skills and experiences with group leaders and other young people. This has taken the form of advice, guidance and suggestions on inclusiveness not only with leisure providers but also her peers and other young people who may be attending the group.
Rebecca has volunteered alongside a young person at Brownies each week enabling her to develop confidence and communication skills and has also supported two disabled young people at a Young Carers Fun day. Without her support it is unlikely that these two young people would have been unable to attend.
As well as supporting young people to enjoy everyday leisure activities, Rebecca has worked hard to raise funds for Out & About and has also visited local schools to talk to young people about getting involved and becoming a volunteer.
Rebecca’s commitment to Out & About has been outstanding - she is a great role model to all other young people in giving up her time as well as continuing with her own academic studies.
The Borough Council of King’s Lynn and West Norfolk’s Advisory Committee for People with Disabilities held their Opportunity Awards Ceremony on 15th October 2009. Some 70 people attended the ceremony which was hosted by the Mayor of King's Lynn and West Norfolk. The awards scheme was instituted by the Advisory Committee for People with Disabilities in 1989 and seeks to recognise outstanding contributions, including innovation, imagination or commitment, which have enabled people with a disability to lead an ordinary life.
Out & About volunteer, Rebecca Walton, won the gold individual award for volunteering and helping others.