David is a member of Guideposts Community Hub in Stroud, which supports people with learning disabilities. He has attended for several years, and in his spare time enjoys gardening, volunteering, learning about vintage cars, and playing bowls. He is keen to tell us about his experience at the Hub, why he feels so comfortable attending and the opportunities it has given him.

Finding Friendship and Social Skills

David first joined the Hub looking to make new friends and build up his skills and confidence. He was welcomed to the group and has since made many new friends.

Before coming to the Hub, David says he was not so sociable and he sometimes felt shy. He says people are not always friendly or welcoming, but “when you come here, people respect you”.

Enabling Visits to Places of Interest

 David particularly enjoys day trips with the Hub, especially a recent trip to an airfield.

“The trips are driven by us. If someone has an interest and has seen somewhere they would like to go, we will go there. Anything to do with planes is great, I love them.

“I enjoy coming here, you get out and see things. It’s much better than being stuck indoors all the time!”

A Special Opportunity

David has a huge interest in music, and the Hub has supported him to be part of The Stroud Song Contest recently. David attended with staff member Rob, and served on the official judging panel. He was thrilled to be involved in the contest, helping decide between 11 finalists in front of a crowd of over 250 people.

The Benefits of Talking

David says how friendly and helpful the staff at the Hub are, and how reassuring it is to know there is always someone to turn to for advice or just a good chat.

Many service members have been visiting the Hub for many years, and feel the staff are more like old friends. David says keeping worries to yourself is not healthy.

“If you have a problem, you can just turn and talk to a member of staff. They are always ready to listen. Sometimes I really need someone to talk to, and there is always someone friendly to help. I find it difficult to talk to people at home, but at the Hub I can just come in and chat.

I love coming here. I would come here every day if I could. I like it more here than at home!“

To find out more about Guideposts Community Hub in Stroud go to www.guideposts.org.uk/stroud-community-hub