Charlotte's been coming to Reach since 2015 and now attends Flower Pod Newark up to four days a week, including Mondays as a client volunteer. She is also a member of the Voice and Participation group.

Sunflowers, taken by Charlotte

Initially shy and unsure, Charlotte has blossomed through her involvement in gardening, photography and art. She enjoys watering plants, mowing, and capturing nature through her lens – from spiderwebs to sunflowers and bees. “I like taking photos of people when they’re smiling,” she says. Knowing of her photography skills, Samantha, Centre Manager, asked Charlotte to photograph her wedding. “I was amazed and really pleased,” Charlotte recalls. “She knew I could take lots of amazing pictures.”

With support from volunteer Ben, Charlotte has learnt advanced photography skills – from changing lenses to understanding aperture and shutter speed. Her creativity now inspires her beyond Reach, influencing what she does at home and on holiday.

Charlotte now feels confident to help peers with communication, road safety and budgeting during community outings. “She feels a sense of ownership here,” says Samantha. " I've known Charlotte for many years now and it's just incredible the person she's become, I'm so proud of her.”

Charlotte’s story shows how creative activities at Reach empower adults with learning disabilities to thrive. With your support, we can offer more opportunities like this.