In introducing this piece by our coach extraordinaire, Warren White, we are reminded of just how varied and wide Fishing for Schools has become. Meeting and spending time with the students recently from both Choice Support groups was humbling.
Warren and his team do some amazing work that really does make a huge difference. We're so glad that we can offer support to this community.
Warren writes:
As the summer school holiday arrived, this is the time of year when thoughts turn to the Fishing for Schools programme; an initiative that has been running for over a decade. I must admit it has always been an exciting time for me.
Taking part were the Trevor Gibbens Unit (TGU), an NHS group for people with complex mental health needs. TGU is an NHS facility who provide secure care, assessment, treatment and rehabilitation and does vital work for their communities.
We also worked with two groups from the charity Choice Support; one from Footscray in Kent and the other from Dartford. Choice Support is a wonderful charity that supports people with autism, learning disabilities and many complex mental health needs.
I have got to know the charity well over the years, and it amazes me the number of activities the groups actually do and become involved in, including gardening, massage, a recycling project, and cooking sessions. Currently the Footscray group are putting together a show where they have, rather impressively, made all their own props. My wife and I were invited to attend this show, and we were truly moved and thrilled to be part of this vibrant community. The people and the staff who provide the core support for these groups never cease to amaze me. We're very happy to do what we can to help them.
For some time now, in addition to the fishing sessions, we have run an annual art competition; it is something the groups really love to get involved in and I like the fact that it is something that starts months before the fishing sessions begin. It’s an activity that is carried out at their local centres, and one that can be done on a rainy day – so perfect. You could say that it is something that stimulates the mind before you get to the bank. Believe me, a huge amount of pride goes into this work.
As a coach, going fishing with this group is a favourite time for me. At the sessions we have a laugh, we have a fish, but what shines through is the kindness and patience shown by the group - these sessions are really special.
Something Allison from Choice Support said, which has really stuck in my mind is, “What we have got, money cannot buy”.