Case Studies

Here are some case studies on participants who have come through a Vi-Ability programme:

“I DIDN’T HAVE MUCH GOING FOR ME, AND WAS WORRIED I MIGHT NOT BE ABLE TO SUSTAIN A PLACE”

Gareth Evans (pictured above, far right) is 17, has learning difficulties and had no prior recognised qualifications.  He was referred to Vi-Ability through a pathway social worker – Brian Bibby from Conwy County Borough Council.

“Brian put me in touch with Ethan from Vi-Ability, and he made me feel really welcome and wanted – something I had never experienced before. He convinced me I could complete the course… so I started… and I haven’t looked back since”.

Whilst there were a few initial ‘teething’ problems, these were quickly overcome and Gareth successfully completed a 15-week course. He has gained a BTEC Level 2 In Football Industries, passed his Level 1 Health & Safety Award, and become a FAW Football Leaders recognised Coach.

“My future is so much more positive having gained not only accredited skills but a greater sense of self worth”

Brian Bibby has had the pleasure of witnessing Gareth’s Journey with Vi-Ability:

“I was absolutely delighted to recently see Gareth receive his various certificates from course leader Ethan. Overtime I have seen Gareth’s self-esteem and confidence grow to highly unexpected levels. They have stuck by him when most other places wouldn’t and historically haven’t. Their patience and support of Gareth have already proved invaluable as I feel he has gone on to achieve other success in other areas”.

Gareth is now enrolled on a further learning course, and is looking forward to going on a two-week European work placement with Vi-Ability at Torino FC in Italy next March 2012.

 

“I HAD LOST COMPLETE INTEREST IN SCHOOL, AND HAD NO IDEA WHAT I WANTED TO DO”

Scott (pictured far right) lives in a “Communities First” area of Colwyn Bay. “I was always into football, and enjoyed having a kick around at nights… but because I wasn’t a superstar and had no coaching experience I didn’t think I could have a career in football”

Scott was told about Vi-Ability through his old head teacher at Eirias High, and shortly after met with Managing Director Kelly Davies at Colwyn Bay Football Club – who convinced him to sign up to the programme.

“The course sounded great! It was really different and I hadn’t been offered anything like it before”

Scott started straightaway, and instantly met people he really liked and shared common interests with. Within weeks he had gained numerous qualifications such as the FAW Football Leaders Award and a BTEC Level 2 In Football Industries.

He had also had the opportunity to participate in a two-week work placement at professional football club in Sweden – Sandviks IK.

“It was a once in a life time opportunity and I found the trip a great personal experience – a real confidence boost. I had never been abroad before without my parents and to be able to coach and work in a different country gave me loads of brand new ideas. By working with professional staff it also made me realise where I could improve my skills”

Scott has recently gained full-time employment for Vi-Ability to work as part of their football in the community team at Bangor City FC and Vauxhall Motors FC. He has also signed up to complete a Foundation Modern Apprenticeship in Customer Services.

Comments are closed.