It's Learning Disability Week and we're highlighting some of the many achievements and passions of the people we support, and how our team empower them to live life to the full, to bust they myths about living life with a learning disability. 

William attends our Acorns Day Opportunities in Pembury, Tunbridge Wells, Kent. One of the wide range of activities provided by our Day Opportunities is sailing, and Acorns is fortunate enough to be located close to the beautiful Chipstead Lake where the people we support learn to sail.  

William has always enjoyed sailing but during the COVID-19 lockdowns the activity was put on hold.

He was nervous about sailing again after this, but with support from Aspens staff and volunteers and his own determination, has gradually build his confidence up again.

Eva Medjedovic, Deputy Service Manager at Acorns, says: "It took William a year to build up his confidence again from going in the walk-on power boat to transitioning to a sailing boat. In his second year back he achieved this by telling himself he could do it. With support from staff and volunteers he chose to get in a sling and to use the hoist to get into a small sailing boat on his own with an instructor. William can now steer the boat himself and is getting out on the water every week. William's personal achievement to get over his fear is amazing and inspirational."

Find out more about the Day Opportunities Aspens offers adults on the autism spectrum and with learning disabilities in Kent and East Sussex here.