SEND Sensation is proud to share this story from one of our partners, InterAct.
Martha’s story
Martha started attending InterAct’s Chelmsford 11–18s evening club in 2022 and has now taken part in over 60 sessions, including our InterAct Christmas Party. She has Down’s syndrome and generalised learning delay.
Martha can be extremely shy around new people and unfamiliar environments, and it often takes her a while to open up. When she’s feeling overwhelmed, she might hide under her jumper, disappear around corners, or stare at the floor if someone tries to talk to her. This can make it tricky to involve her in group activities or help her connect with others at the club.
Martha enjoys painting — especially colouring in — and once shared with staff that she doesn’t like going outside the lines. Staff gently introduced her to watercolour painting, encouraging her to explore a looser, more playful style.
Martha quickly got stuck in, experimenting with colour mixing and different brush techniques. This creative breakthrough seemed to unlock something in her. She began to open up more and shared with staff that she really enjoys PE at school and has a friendship group. She even began to talk about some of the challenges she’s been facing within that group.
Words from mum
Martha really enjoys attending InterAct. She can often lack confidence and is socially shy, even in familiar environments like school. She is currently undergoing assessment for ASD and support around her anxiety.
Since joining InterAct, Martha has become more engaged in social activities.
Martha particularly enjoys the arts and crafts, yoga sessions, and the opportunity to be around other young people in a supportive setting. Through her time with InterAct, Martha has started to build confidence and is now more comfortable visiting new places—something that was previously quite challenging for her.
About InterAct
InterAct support children and young people aged 8-18 in Essex with learning disabilities / additional needs to have successful journeys towards more independent adult lives.