Posted: 16 May, 2023
“Owen is a 29 year old man with severe autism and other disabilities. He had typical development as a child but developed encephalitis and had other factors that led to his challenges. He lives with his mother and father and is supported by a loving brother and sister.
Being active and out and about in the community is very important to Owen and us but we have struggled finding activities that are inclusive and welcoming.
Wheels for All at Salford provides all this and more for Owen.
The staff and the volunteers are very kind and helpful and it’s so much fun for him too. The track at Salford helps to minimise risk for Owen and we travel twice a week from Bury to attend. Socially, we and Owen have made a number of good friends there so it’s a great social thing too!
When Owen was younger someone once said, “well it’s unlikely he will ever ride a bike and be that independent”. At Wheels for All he has that freedom on the adapted trike to enjoy his independent mobility. There is nothing about Wheels for All that is not beneficial for Owen it helps his cardiovascular fitness, his flexibility, and the strength in his legs. Most importantly of all it allows him to participate like anyone else with a little adjustment.
This is a wonderful charity that has made a difference to Owen and our lives and we are lucky to have access to it. Many with physical and learning disabilities are not encouraged or supported to do physical activity and post pandemic we still see a lack of sufficient support and opportunity. Wheels for All at Salford is a fantastic charity and improves Owen’s life.
It is true enablement in action!”
-Owen’s Dad
Download Owen’s story here.
