Craegmoor resident celebrates independence

Darren Wimbush, a resident at Craegmoor’s Alphonsus House in Oldbury, has been recognised for his achievements in overcoming his learning disability to achieve independence, employment and inspiring his peers.

Darren was presented with the Darren Selman Award at the recent Changing Our Lives Spotlight event, which celebrates the talent of people with learning disabilities in Sandwell, Wolverhampton, Dudley and Walsall.

Working with a supporter from Enable, an organisation helps support people with disabilities into employment and work experience as well as providing personal development opportunities.

Darren undertook a four week work trial at Asda. He successfully completed his trial and has now been offered a job. Darren has gained confidence and has no hesitation in helping with customer queries and his communication skills have resulted in very positive feedback from his managers at Asda.

Alphonsus House comprises of three houses and one bungalow, which provide residential care for people with learning disabilities.

Toni Gardner, Service Mmanager at Alphonsus House, said: “We are all incredibly proud of Darren and his achievements. We always aim to support our service users to live as independently as possible and Darren is a shining example. He certainly deserves his award.”

Kaldip Kaur from Enable, who works with Darren, said: “Darren epitomises what Enable is all about. He is very modest about his achievements but he is an inspiration to everyone who meets him and is a worthy recipient of the award.”