LIFE IN LOCKDOWN – from Chris Naylor, chair of board of Trustees and parent to Matthew who comes to Next Step

‘Hi everyone,

So how has lockdown been for you? For the Naylor family it’s not been too bad, though we have had our, shall we call them ‘moments’!? However, I have to admit it’s wearing a bit thin now and especially when the weather is wet and miserable. For those of you who don’t know Matthew, most of all he enjoys being outside, walking or riding on the back of our tandem bike with his dad. So long as he is doing something to channel his energy he is generally happy enough!!! So the weather we had in April and May was such a blessing. We had some lovely walks and with no time restrictions it meant we could set off sometimes with a picnic and just enjoy the day. In fact our last ‘meal out’ way back at the beginning of March was at the station café in Hebden Bridge where they make the best bacon and sausage buttys. Thankfully I didn’t think about coronavirus when we sat at the vinyl covered table which possibly hoarded a variety of germs – and we are still alive!! And it’s that kind of thing we’ve missed – going to friends or into town for a coffee somewhere after the supermarket. Matthew misses going to the pub after walking with his group on a Thursday. All the little bits that make up life.

We are lucky to have a garden and one that isn’t overlooked so a variety of activities ranging from mowing the grass (holding on to the lawnmower with dad) to obstacle courses made from chairs and a plank on two milk crates have been tried, some successful others not so! Matthew enjoys his music so for a bit of parental rest has been to put him his headphones on and just ‘let him be’. Most of the time it’s worked.

However, in bad weather it’s a different kettle of fish altogether and like lots of folk – we’ve baked! The attention span is short and it can be a challenge when the mixer is suddenly dropped or comes out of the bowl full of mixture – but I am pleased to say that the results have been edible so that precious flour hasn’t been wasted. But there’s only so much baking you can do in a day isn’t there? Until just a couple of weeks ago Matthew’s PA has been off but has now come back for a couple of short days which has helped but the limited activities available are just the same. And I know this is the case for Next Step. The staff have done a fantastic job and I am full of admiration for their dedication and if I say ‘bravery’ I mean that. I think when all around them there seems to be the coronavirus threat, they have managed to carry on working and support the individuals who need them. I clapped for them every Thursday – our very own Front Line Workers and I’m still clapping for them – maybe not outside with Matthew on his drum but recognising and being very thankful to each and every one of them. Hopefully, it won’t be too long before life becomes more ‘normal’ but in the meantime, take care and stay safe.’