We were introduced to Unitas about 3 years by my friend Sonal (mum to Sarah). Joe was initially anxious to visit a new place, however on arrival we were warmly welcomed by staff and shown around all the activities in the building. A big smile spread across Joes face. Happy Joe = Happy parents.
He couldn’t wait to join in and also say hello to peers he knew. Time went really fast and before we knew it was time to go home.
We promised Joe we would come back the following Sunday and have never looked back, attending most weeks since, as well as Wednesdays in school holidays.
When Joe first started Unitas he needed me to be present in activity rooms to emotionally support him. Since then I have gradually moved further away from him, and with the encouragement of regular and familiar staff he is now confident to partake in activities himself, asking for what he wants.
Joe also likes to buy himself a snack from the Tuck Shop, and I’m reassured that the understanding staff allow him time to make his selection, as well as giving him the correct change, helping increase his communication and independence skills.
Despite Joe being highly vulnerable requiring support and supervision out both at home and outside, Unitas has made a huge impact on our family by allowing Joe the freedom to be part of its safe community.
We are warmly welcomed and Joe is supported where necessary. A few times, depending on his mood and staff availability, Joe is now confident enough for me to pop out for a short while knowing he is safe with a range of activities for him to do and staff to support him – a vital step in increasing his independence and social skills.
When asked about how Unitas’ youth workers support them, Debbie said
“Being a Unitas parent has even given me the opportunity to make friends, where we can chat, share ideas and strategies without judgement.”
"Joes highlight was being selected for a Unitas trip to The Grove Hotel in Watford last summer for a BBQ & Movie Night, along with myself and his sister. He still talks about it now."
“We can’t thank Unitas enough for the difference it has made to both Joes and our lives.”
Real people, real stories
Over 15,800 young people have been members of Unitas since we opened in 2019. These are just some of their stories.
We’re more than a youth centre – we help young people unlock their potential.
