Kevin was taking part in NTFC CT’s pan-disability group, Every Player Counts, when he heard about the disability friendly Volunteer Coach Academy (VCA) that was being run by the Trust. He wanted to take part because of his love for football and thought it would help him build his confidence and develop some useful transferable skills that will help him in the workplace and his personal life.
“I wanted to change my life and not feel stuck in the same spot anymore.”
Kevin lives with a mental health condition that he feels has been very up and down. He also has ADHD, saying he can struggle with focussed learning and finds paperwork a challenge – one he oftens puts off because he is nervous of making a mistake.
Taking part in the VCA alongside other people living with health conditions and disabilities helped him feel at ease joining a new group. The adaptions and support from staff with reading, completing forms and general comprehension meant he felt able to take part at his own pace and learn in his own way.
“My confidence often lets me down. I’m trying, but it’s not easy. I want to be more focussed, not be so quiet – if I become a coach, I need to be able to speak up. Volunteering with NTFC CT, and knowing there are people there to support me, has helped.”
The group environment allowed Kevin to benefit from peer support and group discussions with staff and the other participants; sharing experiences and different ways of tackling challenges.
“I knew some people there already, but it’s been good to meet everyone else. It’s good to get different views on tactics, warmups, how to change a session if the weather changes, things like that.”
Since completing the initial training, Kevin has applied to volunteer with NTFC CT – supporting with the groups he once took part in as a participant so that he can help other people. He’s enjoyed shadowing and supporting experienced staff and has been working on his confidence and communication – particularly when it comes to speaking up with any questions he has. He’s also seeking our support to continue his learning – applying for online courses to further build up his knowledge, which he feels will help him be more confident.
“I’ve really, really enjoyed the VCA. Meeting everyone has been great. I’ve made new friends and gained experiences I never had before. It’s been absolutely brilliant.”