Louise, a young person, lives life with a physical disability along with many other young people in Perth & Kinross. However, she is an inspiration to us all as she gives up her time to help other young people with disabilities do sports activities.
What encouraged, you having a disability yourself, to get involved with volunteering with organisations which provide support for young people with disabilities?
"Mainly because I am involved in sport myself. I wanted to start helping other young people with disabilities in Perth & Kinross to take part in sport."
What sort of things do you have to do?
"I assist in coaching a variety of sports from boccia to football. I also help at sporting events and competitions run by Perth & Kinross Council and Perth & Kinross Leisure. In the school holidays, I help out with a sports club which runs for children and young people with disabilities."
Do you enjoy the time you spend there?
"Yes, I love it!"
Are there any physical or emotional challenges which you are faced with? If yes, what are they?
"Not particularly. This is because other people are understanding of my own disability and therefore allow me to do tasks which I will have no difficulty with. If these people were not so helpful, I would have many challenges to face - mainly physically."
Do you feel you gain a lot from doing this?
"Yes I do - confidence, knowledge/experience and communication skills to name a few. I love working with young people."
Would you recommend doing something like this to anyone else who has a disability, and why?
"Yes, definitely, because I feel it gives something back to others after all the help and support I have received over the years due to my disability. No matter what type of disability you have, there's a job for everyone in helping others similar to ourselves."
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