Riley
In 2021, Riley became one of approximately 8000 children across Leeds with additional needs when he was diagnosed with Autism and ADHD. Riley is also in remission for neuroblastoma, leaving him with severe muscle weakness, he has permanent hearing loss and uses a hearing aid.
Riley finds it extremely difficult to socialise with his peers or to be in large groups. He didn’t like the outdoors or loud noises, hated school, struggled with concentration and was severely lacking in confidence.
Like many 9 year old boys, Riley LOVES football and is a keen supporter of Leeds and Tottenham. Riley was desperate to play, but he struggled to get involved with football in the playground, as other children looked at him differently and left him out.
Riley’s diagnosis and love of football led to his mum, Sophie to SNAPS. Riley joined SNAPS’ Sunday football sessions, where he has been supported by Charlie Bonner and Andy Wort, specially trained football coaches from the Leeds United Foundation. The sessions are designed to be accessible, allowing for plenty of breaks and enabling everyone – regardless of ability – to take part. This has meant that Riley feels included.
Playing football at SNAPS has made a huge difference to Riley. Being a part of a team has given him the confidence to branch out to other groups and activities, he has made some wonderful friends and is always smiling. He is happy, enthusiastic and brimming with confidence. He loves taking part in penalty shootouts and receiving medals, and has even taken part in the SNAPS Superhero Challenge. The change has been so significant, that when his Gran came to see him in action on the pitch, she was actually brought to tears (of joy)!
Riley’s love of football has even helped with other aspects of his life such as his schoolwork, where previously he had struggled with concentration, as his teachers use football as a fun way to learn. It has also helped Riley physically, supporting his muscle strength which will have a positive long-term impact on his health.
Not only has SNAPS supported Riley, but his mum, Sophie too. Raising a child with additional needs can be isolating, so meeting other families in a similar situation can be incredibly positive. Sophie has also gained vital support from Ali, SNAPS’ Family Support Wellbeing Co-ordinator, who was able to support Sophie through a particularly difficult time, when he was absent from school due to his mental health.
Sophie says: “There is nothing more painful than seeing your child suffer and it was so reassuring to feel listened to and supported by Ali during such a difficult time.
“Riley’s confidence has really grown. He’s so confident whilst he’s at football. He’s growing his friendships and it’s just amazing to see. He is happy at football, and that brings joy to the family. Riley doesn’t like getting out of bed for much, but for football he will bounce out of bed and can’t wait to get there!
“Thank you so much SNAPS for helping Riley’s confidence grow and helping him enjoy something that brings so much joy to his life! I hate to think where he’d be today if it wasn’t for SNAPS”.
