Inspirational Arin receives support from Raven
An inspirational young resident is now well on his way to finding employment, with the assistance of Raven’s employment support service.
Arin is 18 and has cerebral palsy, meaning he uses a wheelchair, has limited use in one arm and hand and suffers from a speech impairment. He attends a local gym four times a week to build up strength in his legs. Last year he was unable to stand unaided, but now he can stand on his own.
When Raven was carrying out adaptations to the home where he lives with his parents he expressed his wish to find a part-time job while studying at college, so was referred to our Employment Support Worker, Katrina Rihan.
After meeting Arin, Katrina, said she was totally in awe of his positive life, his confidence, his smiling face and eyes, total acceptance of his disability and how he does not let it get in the way of his life.
“Arin oozes with self-belief and energy to aspire,” said Katrina.
Arin aims to gain employment and use his first pay cheque to treat his parents and brother. He feels blessed with such a supportive and loving family and wants to show his appreciation to them.
An action plan was agreed for Arin to become involved in volunteering to gain employment skills and experience, which he could later take into a paid job.
Katrina explains: “Initially, we had teething problems as some companies were unable to accommodate him with his disability. A successful volunteer placement was eventually found for Arin over the summer period at YMCA East Surrey’s gym in Redhill.
“Arin was so pleased. He is such a people’s person, and customer interaction is just what he wanted.”
Arin successfully completed his summer work experience placement. When asked about his progress, Ollie Booth, Fitness Manager at YMCA East Surrey, said: “For the industry he wants to work in communication is vital. Arin is very enthusiastic, has an excellent manner with customers and colleagues, and always has a smile!
“He is very enthusiastic, has an excellent manner with customers and colleagues, and always has a smile!
“He always initiates conversations with customers, which is great for making them feel welcomed and is excellent at making small talk. He is a quick learner, takes everything on board, and is very popular with the staff.”
Ollie decided to keep Arin on at the gym for as long as he wished after his summer placement.
Katrina added: “I am supporting Arin with his CV, completing application forms and honing interview skills. We plan to start looking for part-time employment after Christmas - at which point he will have six months of work experience under his belt.
“It has been a real inspiration working with Arin on a personal level. He demonstrates such courage, confidence, self-belief, motivation, strong will, resilience and robust characteristics.”