When Arron left college at 21, his mum, Sharon, faced the challenge many parents of young adults with learning disabilities encounter: what happens next?

“I was panicking,” Sharon admits. “It was an adult day centre and he’d only just left college. But when I visited VIP and saw people his age, even some he went to school with, I knew it was the right place.”

Now 29, Arron has been attending VIP Day Services for over seven years. What began as one day a week soon became a lifeline for both Aaron and his family. He now attends 3 days a week, Monday to Wednesday.

Arron thrives on structure. Like many people with additional needs, routine plays a crucial role in his wellbeing. “He’s got his own routine,” Sharon explains. “He comes home, has a brew and a pint of shandy and his pyjamas have to be on the bed. If they’re not, he shouts, ‘Where’s my pyjamas?’”

VIP provides that same consistency as well as the chance to grow.

Sharon says, “I used to dress him every day. Now he wants to do it himself. Sometimes he’ll come down with his pants on backwards, but he laughs and says, ‘It was a good try, wasn’t it Mum?’ He’s more independent now.”

At VIP, Arron takes part in hands-on, meaningful activities like painting, baking, and even helping with minor repairs. “He always tells me about the painting,” Sharon says. “Last week, he said he fixed a door on the bus, I’m not sure that one’s true! But you can tell he’s proud.”

Sharon thinks that these experiences have clearly had an impact. “Sometimes he’ll say, ‘Mum, do you want me to wash up?’ He never used to do that. It’s something he’s picked up from being there.”

For Arron’s family, the support from VIP goes far beyond what happens during the day.

“They’re always there if I need them,” Sharon explains. “I can message the team if I’ve got a problem. I could talk to them about it and that meant so much.”

Knowing Arron is safe, happy, and engaged brings peace of mind. “I wouldn’t take him away from VIP, not even to our caravan in Spain long term. There’s nothing there for him. Here, he’s got his routine, his friends and he enjoys going.”

“Seeing Arron thrive at our VIP service has been truly inspiring. We’re absolutely delighted with how much he has grown in confidence and independence. Watching his personality shine and the way he connects with his friends has been a real joy for all of us. We couldn’t be prouder of the amazing young man he is becoming.” Says Jenny Sissons, Assistant Manager at VIP.

When Sharon was asked what she would say to another family thinking about using VIP Day Services, she said, “Definitely go for it. I was unsure at first, but I’m so glad I made that decision. I didn’t think it was fair to keep him at home. People with learning disabilities need structure, purpose, and connection. VIP gives them all that…and more.”

Looking for day services for adults with learning disabilities?

VIP offers a warm, supportive environment where individuals can thrive and families can feel supported every step of the way.