Disability initiative (D.I), is an organisation for people with special needs who provide care services and run a variety of sociable activities for all ages, keeping the mind stimulated and the body active.
During my induction day, I straight away saw great chemistry between the staff and users. I was warmly welcomed by the team once I joined and mingled with them.
The activities which I took part in included health and fitness, Boccia and using the computer. However, my favourite was boxing, we got to go to a local and smash punching bags with the boxing gloves that my family bought me.
As time progressed and friendships expanded, the loving staff admired my achievements and also encouraged me to get over my fear of animals. D.I got a Genie chair and kindly let me use it. I could drive while standing up which made me feel on top of world!
My friend Steph introduced me to Disability Today (now known as Ability Today). I really got on with the owner and founder Grant Logan and became one of his volunteers. My time was split with working at his place and attending D.I.
Covid hit and lockdown changed everything. People were devastated with being stuck at home and unable to socialise. Despite this, D.I didn’t stop their services. While the centre was closed, the staff visited the users’ houses and gave them fun activities to do such as word searches. Facebook was also used to stay connected with staff and friends.
I also started a journalism course with the newly branded Ability Today and became a founding member student of the first Academy for Disabled Journalists
Finally, the lockdown ended and we all returned to the D.I centre, but nothing was the same for me. I had a course to compete alongside having issues with carers, although the new staff at D.I were supportive and accommodating. I was given some of my own space so I could complete my studies.
At the end of the year, D.I had a royal visit from Sophie the Countess of Wessex, (now Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh). As she was leaving, the Countess read my poem that I wrote for her and came over to thank me for it. Lord Lieutenant Mr Michael More-Molyneux, and Mr Shahid Azeem DL, the High Sheriff of Surrey at that time also attended that day.
I completed my course, and eventually I became the Assistant Editor for Ability Today. Unfortunately, traveling to D.I was time consuming and couldn’t participate in the activities due to work commitments. My time at D.I had come to an end.
I would like to thank D.I for their kind services throughout my attendance there and linking me with Ability Today. I wish the good team and the users the best, I hope one day I may come and visit to see how you’re all doing.
By Khaleel Chima.
