Shirley, Kerry's Mum with Kerry

Kerry has been attending Reach Mansfield since 2016, currently coming to Reach over four days a week. She does courses including singing, dancing and performing arts. Her favourite session is dancing, led by Abbie. This term, the dance group are rehearsing for the Christmas Concert, getting active and creative with new choreography each session.

Kerry says dancing makes her feel “excited and confident in front of everyone, with loads of people in the audience.” Her passion for performance has flourished at Reach.

Her mum, Shirley, shares: “Dancing is Kerry’s passion. It’s really brought her out of her shell. She absolutely loves coming to Reach. The staff are lovely. If you find somewhere where you feel totally safe and accepted, that’s all we’re looking for.”

Kerry struggled socially at school, but at Reach she has grown in confidence, made lasting friendships and become a valued part of the community. She now helps staff and clients at lunchtime and enjoys socialising with her friends both at Reach and outside of it. Shirley adds, “In the last couple of years, I’ve noticed a massive difference in Kerry, Reach is a brilliant place for her.”