Darren’s story
Darren Onno, aged 48, is a lively and active individual who loves swimming, going to the gym, and dancing. Darren describes the calming effect of swimming underwater: “I particularly love to swim underwater. I close my eyes, and the complete darkness makes me feel happy.”
Darren has faced challenges with his mental health, which led to a period in a residential home before he progressed to supported living. However, the move into supported living required Darren to relocate to a new area and leave behind his former job.
At first, Darren struggled to settle in his new environment, frequently returning to his previous home, as he had no activities to engage his time and energy.
Darren was keen to get back into employment, so he joined ECL’s Inclusive Employment programme for support with finding paid employment. Gemma, his Inclusive Employment Consultant, quickly realised that to help him achieve his employment goals, he needed more opportunities to integrate and become more independent in his new community.
She referred him to ECL’s Community Connector team, which supports people with learning disabilities and autism in Essex to connect with local groups, hobbies, and activities, enriching their lives and providing valuable experience and skills to take into employment.
Katie, Darren’s Community Connector, met with him to discuss his interests and needs. Recognising Darren’s desire to meet new people and feel more comfortable in his area, Katie suggested he join the One Colchester Community Hub. The hub provides a range of social groups and activities, and Darren soon discovered a passion for the dominoes group and IT sessions.
Knowing that dance was a key interest for Darren, Katie also found him a dance class on Mondays, which he now attends independently and thoroughly enjoys. Darren shared, “It’s a lot of fun. The group routine makes me pour with sweat, and I enjoy going to the front of the class to do my solo.”
Katie has seen notable changes in Darren since they first met.
Darren has become much happier and more settled. While he is exploring his paid employment options, his social activities are boosting his confidence and helping him become more independent.
Darren’s journey with the Community Connector programme is an inspiring example of the impact that local engagement and connection can have. With the support of Katie and the ECL Community Connector team, Darren has found contentment in a new local area and rediscovered his interests.