by Lion Alex Candow
How does being a Lion help me?
I joined the Lions in May 2024 with the intention of supporting the communities in Chepstow and Caldicot. After being made redundant at the end of 2023, I was uncertain about my next steps; seeking to broaden my experience and strengthen my professional portfolio, I accepted an invitation from Denise Harrison, the President of the Lions, to become a member. Since joining, I have had the opportunity to develop essential soft skills such as communication and adaptability, contribute my expertise in social media marketing to enhance audience engagement, and assume responsibilities beyond my usual remit, including managing meeting notes as acting vice chair.
A significant benefit of my involvement has been the chance to solidify my passion for promoting diversity and inclusion, with particular emphasis on advocacy within the neurodiversity community.
What is Neurodiversity?
Neurodiversity refers to the concept that an individual's brain may function differently from those considered neurotypical. Common neurodivergent conditions include Autism, Dyspraxia, and ADHD.
Challenges that may arise for neurodiverse individuals can include difficulties in socialising and communication, heightened anxiety, and struggling with adapting to changes.
I champion this cause because of my own personal experience. I was diagnosed with Autism during my childhood and faced significant challenges in education, making friends, and pursuing a life of independence.
With my service in the Lions, I’ve supported the charity Ready Steady Go, which is based in South Wales.
What is Ready Steady Go?
Ready Steady Go is a youth charity started in 2018 to provide opportunities for children with Autism and their families to engage in activities that promote their social development.
I discovered this charity at the Christmas crafts fete in Chepstow last year whilst volunteering with the Lions. I met Tracy Rowland who founded the charity after advocating for equality and inclusion for young children living with the condition. After a friendly conversation, I offered to provide my service to support the charity’s youth club at the Undy Church and Community Hall that takes place every Thursday between two groups; the blue group and the green group.
How does this fit in with what you do at the Lions?
At Chepstow and Caldicot Lions, we are committed to delivering meaningful service to the community, with a particular focus on youth development. Drawing on my experience, I am aware of the challenges faced by the children at Ready Steady Go and have sought to support the charity's efforts in fostering opportunities for these individuals to enhance their social skills and confidence.
In the summer, I worked as a volunteer with the Ready Steady Go staff on day trips when the children who are on school holidays. These day trips include cinema trips, cookery sessions, visiting sunny Barry Island and visiting the fire station, each designed to facilitate social skill development and encourage participants to engage with new experiences beyond their usual comfort zones. For instance, at the autism friendly cinema screening at Cineworld, I have assisted children in navigating social environments and practising communication skills.
For my services to Ready Steady Go, Lion President Denise awarded me the President’s Appreciation Award, recognising my commitment to supporting the development of vulnerable children and advocating for equality and inclusion across Chepstow and Caldicot.
How does the Lions support you in doing it?
Rachel, a colleague of mine and Friend of the Lions, attends the youth club with me and assists young children in participating in activities run by the charity. Drawing on her previous experience supporting young children, as well as our longstanding professional relationship from my school days when she provided classroom support, we work together to promote equal opportunities for young people living with Autism and demonstrate that they can lead fulfilling lives.
How can this influence others who might want to help also get involved in Lions?
During my time volunteering with Ready Steady Go, I have engaged with parents and carers through the ‘Expert by Experience’ support group. This platform has encouraged me to go outside of my comfort zone and share my experiences of growing up with Autism and overcoming related challenges, while also gaining valuable insight from parents and carers on how they support their children and help them overcome barriers. Participating in this peer support group has led to discussions about the Lions, providing an opportunity to explain our services in Chepstow and Caldicot. Our organisation is committed to supporting significant community events and addressing key issues such as hunger, vision and promoting the healthy development of young children.
To learn more about Ready Steady Go, click below:
https://readysteadygoclub.co.uk/
