Together student is an internet hit!

A student with complex communication and mobility needs has become an internet hit after achieving hundreds of views on social media.

Steven Donegan started at the Together Trust’s specialist education facility, Bridge College, after his life changed following a car accident five years ago.

The video which shows the progress of the inspirational young man has touched followers of the Together Trust’s Facebook and Twitter pages.

Bridge College based in Openshaw, Manchester, is a regional centre of excellence in the education of young people aged 16-25 who have learning difficulties and disabilities.

Steven said, “I woke up in hospital to find I couldn’t move the right side of my body and had lost all speech. I felt frustrated, angry and depressed. After my initial stay in hospital, I began to rebuild my life. Before I started at Bridge College, I had never been to a specialist school or college so I didn’t know what to expect.”

Rachel Stevens, a specialised Speech and Language therapist at Bridge College, encouraged Steven to develop his non-verbal communication by making better use of gestures.

She also suggested that Steven try out a hi-tech communication aid as another way to share his thoughts, feelings and opinions. Steven is now able to interact with others in ways he couldn’t otherwise have done – an important step towards achieving his goals.

Steven added, “As my confidence improved, I started doing more things in college to push myself. For example, I frequently use the hydro pool, which helps me to walk by strengthening my muscles. Being at Bridge College has helped me to feel much more positive – it’s helped me to rebuild my life.”

Staff at Bridge College are hosting their next open day for prospective students, parents and carers on Saturday 27^th February 10am-12pm.

Lisa Duncalf, Principal at Bridge College said, “Steven is one of many young people we support here at Bridge, he is a real inspiration to his peers and the progress he has made over the past few years is fantastic.”

The video showing Steven’s progress can be viewed at www.togethertrust.org.uk/video/bridge-college-stevens-progress.

For further information or to register your interest in the open day, contact Bridge College on 0161 487 4293.

Keep up to date with the Together Trust and Bridge College on Facebook and Twitter using @TogetherTrust and @Bridge_College.