Young adults with spinal cord injuries blossom after independence training week
I’ve just returned from an incredible week helping prepare young people with spinal cord injuries for adult life.
What a privilege it was to see people achieving things they never believed possible. Simple things that able-bodied people take for granted that can be barriers for those with spinal cord injuries trying to live independently.
The Moving Forwards 18–25s course in Leeds was hosted by spinal cord injury charity Back Up, and I attended as a buddy in an experience that was both eye-opening and deeply inspirational.
At this age, individuals are considering moving out of home, going to university, or starting work. It can be a challenging time in a young adult’s life, and their families’, too. Parents might feel they’re struggling to balance the need to protect their child with a desire to encourage independence. And some families may not know how to support this transition.
Over the course of the week, a group of young adults came together to build vital independence skills – from cooking and navigating public transport, to confidently exploring a busy city environment.
These skills weren’t just taught, they were experienced. Through fun activities like a Come Dine With Me challenge and a city-wide treasure hunt, participants were encouraged to embrace the world outside their comfort zones and push boundaries in a fun, supportive setting.
One of the highlights for me was speaking with Sophie Oliver, who shared how impactful the course had been in just a few days.
When she arrived, she told me she could “bump up a kerb and would achieve it 50% of the time”. By midweek, she had mastered the skill, and more.
Watching Sophie confidently navigate the use of an escalator for the first time and seeing the pride on her face was unforgettable. That moment alone spoke volumes about what these courses truly offer.
Throughout the week, I witnessed countless moments like this – participants mastering skills they never imagined they could, forming new friendships, and rediscovering joy.
One young woman shared with me: “I haven’t laughed this much in years.”
The impact of these courses goes far beyond physical skills. They empower individuals with spinal cord injuries to reclaim confidence, build independence, and bring these life-changing experiences home – benefiting not just themselves, but their families too.
As a buddy, I gained invaluable insight into the everyday challenges participants face — and more importantly, how with the right support and mindset, those challenges can be overcome. The resilience, humour, and determination I saw throughout the week will stay with me for a long time.
Back Up’s Moving Forwards course is a great initiative, and I’m incredibly grateful to have been part of it. The experience reminded me of the transformative power of community, support, and a belief in what’s possible, and I’m so happy Bolt Burdon Kemp supports Back Up as one of our charity partners.
