Success Stories
Nichola's Story
Nicholas received funding for drama lessons at Stagecoach Performing Arts School
The 15 yr old beneficiary really enjoyed performing whether it was in the school choir or class assembly and his ambition was to perform in a big production. However because of his disability it was proving difficult for the beneficiary to access after school drama clubs. The principal of Stagecoach has many years experience working with students with special needs and the high ratio of staff to children helped guarantee that he would receive the support he required.
Steps to success
Attending Stagecoach has enabled Nicholas to develop new skills in the arts and make new friends. He has exceeded everyone’s expectations and all involved have witnessed how he has grown in confidence. Evident that this experience will benefit Nicholas’ future learning; everyone was delighted to hear that Salford LEA has agreed to provide the funding for further lessons.
“I have always wanted to be in a show, but never thought that I would be in one at The Lowry! I feel more confident now and know that everyone gets nervous not just me. I am looking forward to doing performing arts when I leave school”.
- Nicholas
Richard's Story
Richard received specialised swimming aids to assist him in the swimming pool.
The 16 yr old beneficiary has been learning to swim since the age of 9. In August ‘04, he was involved in a serious coach accident and nearly lost his life. Since coming out of his coma and discovering he had lost the use of his arm he has been determined to prove that he is still a competent swimmer. At his first race, he broke the British junior record and is now training six times a week to qualify for the Paralympics in Beijing 2008.
Steps to success
Richard has regained his physical and mental strength and learnt how to apply basic swimming technique using one arm. He trains seven or eight times a week, sometimes leaving the house at 4.45am for a two hour session before going to school. Richard recently won two gold medals, five silver and a bronze in the Disability Sport England Senior Short Course Nationals held in Sheffield.
“Since the accident I have become more determined. My ultimate goal is to compete in the London’s Olympic Games in 2012”.
- Richard
Natasha's Story
Natasha received a saxophone and tuition.
The 17yr old beneficiary had very quickly learnt to read music and master the technique of playing the saxophone. Her teacher told the Trust that she is a shy girl who comes alive and is full of confidence when she plays the saxophone and this was evident when she gave a solo performance in her school concert.
The beneficiary’s music lessons came to an end and she had to return her saxophone to the school, when she left for college in September.
Steps to success
Owning her own saxophone has enabled Natasha to practice regularly at home. She has successfully passed her grade 1 exam and is working towards her Grade 2. Natasha plans to join a band which will be an ideal opportunity to meet new friends and travel abroad to perform concerts. As Natasha’s musical ability has improved, her confidence has grown, which has helped her settle in to college life.
“Natasha has shown determination, commitment and consistent motivation. Consequently she has made remarkable progress reading and playing music.
- Natasha’s Teacher
Glen's Story
Glen received funding to attend the Special Olympics.
The 21yr old beneficiary was selected to attend The Special Olympics in Glasgow in July. The event provides an opportunity for people with learning disabilities to compete in Olympic type sporting activities. The beneficiary was selected to attend because of “his enthusiasm and commitment to training to reach the standard he has attained since he commenced college in September 2003”.
Steps to success
Glen delighted friends and family by winning 2 silver medals in the 100m and softball. More than 2500 athletes took part in the games which had its opening ceremony at Celtic Park. One of Glen’s highlights was meeting Manchester City goal keeper David James, an ambassador for the Special Olympics. The impact of the games has boosted Glen’s confidence and will add weight to his record of achievement.
“We wish to sincerely thank you for your generous support enabling Glen to participate in the Special Olympics. May your support continue to benefit others”.
- Glen’s Parents
Salford Foundation Trust offers the opportunity to obtain funding where personal circumstances could stand in the way of ambitions and provides support for young people between the ages of 5 and 25 who live in Salford.
Peter rocks Trust celebration
Over a hundred guests were treated to a mini rock concert featuring former New Order musician Peter Hook when the Trust staged a celebration lunch at a Salford hotel.
The bass guitarist, who has become a patron of the Trust, performed with the band The Detachments for the Joy Division number Love Will Tear Us Apart.
Paralympic swimmer turned medal-winning cyclist Sarah Storey OBE, another patron, told the audience about the difficulties faced by young athletes in obtaining the necessary funding to pursue their sport.
She praised the Trust for its grant-making policy which had helped so many young people to pursue their interests and achieve their aspirations.
Several young people - who had received grants - also spoke at the event, aimed at raising awareness and support for the work of the Trust.
Peter Collins, Chief Executive of the Salford Foundation Trust described the event as a great success.
To see Peter Hook's interview with Channel M click here...