Disability awareness
NIKI TENNANT
Adults from a Cambuslang support service for disabled young people enjoyed treats and experiences galore when they celebrated the recent Disability Awareness Week.
Local businesses and organisations went out of their way to make a fuss of the people from Keane Premier Support Service by making them welcome and allowing them to try out experiences they had never sampled before.
Fire fighter Brian McPhee arranged for members to visit Polmadie Fire Station to learn about the work of Scottish Fire and Rescue.
They were given tips on how to handle and operate a hose, and were even given rides in a fire engine.
Alex McDowan of Harley Quinn’s invited them behind the cocktail bar to learn the art of mocktail making and they made and sampled creations including Cuddle on the Beach, Baby Unicorn and Nohito.
“They absolutely loved it,” said support worker Elaine O’Connor. “As well as giving us everything for free, Harley Quinn’s also provided music and they had a disco.”
Alex also invited the young people to his other establishment, Harleys, for games of pool.
Dur i n g t h e w e e k- l o n g celebrations, the group enjoyed complimentary afternoon tea at the Old Oak Inn in Eastfield, organised by support worker Gemma McCrory.
“The guys had a great week. It was something different. A big thank you goes to everyone who helped to make the week so very special,” said Elaine.
Over and above the Disability Awareness Week activities, East Kilbride FC delighted young adult team member Morgan Wakeling by giving her tickets to their last game of the season, when she watched them winning the league and lifting the cup.
“Morgan absolutely loves football, so she was thrilled,” continued Elaine.
“She even got to watch her old teacher from Rutherglen High School, Jamie Longworth, who plays with them. It was quite a day.”