He recognised I was able to adapt and do it on my own and he just let me get on with it and tried to help me anyway he could…
Owain Beesley talking about his ‘Amazing’ Trombone Teacher Mr Griffiths
We aspire to being like Mr G, this is your space if you are a child, young person, or young adult with upper limb difference. Here we will post your stories, links to useful information, and explore issues important to you. To add content reach out to our social media manager; Megan BE our Social Media Manager. You can email here at meganbe@reach.org.uk or message us on Instagram or TikTok.
Curious about what’s in the video? Click here to see the How do you do it resource library.
RAW 2027 dates – 25th July – 1st August 2027.
Every year our Reach kids aged 10-17 can have the opportunity to meet, bond and go on an adventure of a lifetime – one that they will remember for years to come – at our annual RAW event held every summer. And this summer, we are heading back to a very much loved venue – Grenville House, Brixham
If you would like to Read more information on Reach Activity Week 2026 Click HERE
Click HERE to book onto RAW, for more information call or email ashleyb@reach.org.uk or 07932747654
We want to try, where we can, to make sure money is not a barrier to reach families participation in Reach events. We have an activity support fund that reach families can apply to. More information can be found here
18–25 Mentorship Programme
Connecting young adults with upper limb difference
Moving into adulthood can bring lots of exciting opportunities, but it can also come with new challenges. Whether it’s starting university, finding your first job, navigating relationships, becoming more independent or simply figuring out where you fit in, having someone who understands can make a huge difference. Reach’s 18–25 Mentorship Programme connects young adults with upper limb difference with mentors who have their own lived experience of growing up and navigating adulthood with an upper limb difference. The programme provides a safe, supportive space to talk openly, share experiences, build confidence and connect with other young adults who understand.
What does the mentorship programme involve?
The programme runs for 9 months, with monthly online sessions using Microsoft Teams.
Sessions are relaxed, supportive and participant-led, giving you the opportunity to:
- Meet other young adults with upper limb difference
- Share experiences and learn from others
- Ask questions and get advice from people who understand
- Build confidence and resilience
- Talk about topics that matter to you
- Take part in smaller group discussions and peer support
Topics might include confidence and body image, relationships, university and employment, workplace adjustments, disclosure, social situations, independence and wellbeing. There is also a “Hot Topics” section where you can bring questions or subjects you’d like to discuss.
Our mentors
Our mentors are Reach members aged over 25 with their own lived experience of upper limb difference. They don’t have all the answers – they’re there to listen, share their experiences, offer support and help you navigate some of the challenges that come with adulthood. All mentors receive training and ongoing support from Reach.
Who can join?
The programme is open to Reach members aged 18–25 with an upper limb difference. You don’t need to have a particular issue or concern to take part. You might simply want to meet people who understand and be part of a supportive community.
Interested in joining?
We’d love to hear from you!
Find out more – contact Jenna Roper, 18 – 25 Project Coordinator on WhatsApp 07484 462462 or email jennaR@reach.org.uk
18–25 Retreat
A chance to connect, have fun and be yourself.
As part of the Reach 18–25 Programme, we bring young adults with upper limb difference together for a residential retreat. The retreat is a chance to step away from everyday life, meet other young adults who understand, build friendships and try new things in a relaxed and supportive environment.
There will be a mix of fun activities, downtime, group discussions and opportunities to connect with other young adults and the Reach mentors. You don’t need to be particularly confident or outgoing to take part — the retreat is designed to be a welcoming space where you can come along, be yourself and meet people who have shared experiences.
What’s included?
- Residential accommodation
- Time to connect with other young adults with upper limb difference
- Fun activities and opportunities to try something new
- Peer support and informal discussions
- Time to relax and unwind
- Support from experienced Reach mentors
- Dates: Friday 2nd – Monday 5th July 2027
- Venue: The 18-25 Retreat is heading to a new stunning
- Venue: Stanley House, Eskdale, Cumbria
- Price: FREE
The 2027 retreat will bring together young adults aged 18–25 and Reach mentors for a weekend of connection, friendship, fun and shared experiences.
Interested in taking part?
If you’re aged 18–25 and have an upper limb difference (ULD), we’d love you to join us.
Find out more – contact Jenna Roper, 18 – 25 Project Coordinator on
- WhatsApp 07484 462462
- or email jennaR@reach.org.uk
Not a Reach member yet? Join HERE
Did you know that we have a support fund? To find out more about the scheme click HERE.
To apply for the support fund, please click HERE.
