Quotes from Members of Dimensions

“The first time that I attended Dimensions I was petrified but I soon relaxed in the welcoming, friendly atmosphere” Susan Angus.

“Dimensions has given me a chance to get my life back on track, I'm now attending college and hope to get a job soon.” Anonymous.

“I have been a member of Dimensions for over a year now and cannot think about not coming. I myself have personally got a lot from attending Dimensions and would encourage anybody to come and give it a try, if like myself you are unsure - once you've been you'll be sure it is for you. I feel now that I can give more things a go than I would ever have thought of over a year ago, least of all done or tried.”Pamela Jinks.

“As a newly disabled person I have experienced the patronising comments and looks from people who used to respect me. Even well intentioned individuals use a false set of values to judge others.

Having learned about the Social Model of Disability I've started to challenge negative attitudes. It should be about one human being respecting another.

Now everyone I meet is hearing about DAD and Dimensions!” David Birdsall.

"Dimensions has given me my life back because I had become socially isolated. I've gone from wondering what to do to fill my days, to having so much to do that the days aren't long enough. I have gained knowledge and skills which have enabled me to progress and work for myself on Community Projects" Carol Johnson.

“Before I became a disabled person I worked as a teacher for nineteen years, four of which were spent at a local comprehensive. I found it difficult to come to terms with being a disabled person. However, I have found that, since starting Dimensions, I am slowly developing a little more self-confidence when dealing with other people. I am re-learning the art of adult conversation and have actually taken the step of enrolling at College to study for the European Computer Driving Licence.

Were it not for my attendance at Dimensions I would almost certainly not be attending this course nor would I have the confidence to begin training in the gym at the Dolphin Centre.

There remains a long road to travel before I would consider myself ready to fully reintegrate into society: but the first steps are encouraging.” David Humphrey.

“Dimensions has definitely changed my life. Before I came here I was stuck at home doing nothing, I was bored. I now go to college, have learned about Information Technology, bought a computer and now I'm about to launch my own website!” Frank Dawson.

"Before Dimensions I sat at home bored. I found out about Dimensions through a friend on an evening out. Dimension's has benefited me immensely. I am more confident, competent and I feel better in myself. I am more outgoing and eager to learn new skills and help other members in their pursuits.

My main achievements have been learning about the Disability Discrimination Act, training to become a mentor, joining groups within D.A.D e.g Advisory Group, learning basic Braille and supporting other members.

Dimensions has given me back a drive to better myself. The "Dimensions Experience" has made me a better person and allowed me to pursue more interests, learn new skills and generally improve my life. It's brilliant!" John Jenkins

"Before I attended Dimensions I was so isolated I never saw anybody. From the time the family went to work all I did was watch television, read books and stared at four walls all day. I found about Dimensions from Social Services Department. It has improved my self awareness, plus it has helped me in my confidence just being there and the staff make time to help in any way,

My main achievements have been learning how to use a computer, designing cards, digital photography, visual awareness, personal safety, jewellery making, equality and diversity conference, child protection and many more. I have attended a mentoring course, have also helped cruse bereavement care and was nominated for the Learning and Skills COLAS Awards 2007.

I am the chair person of the Advisory Group and I have delivered several workshops e.g. floral arrangements and calligraphy.

I would be lost if I could not come to Dimensions. I am not isolated any more." George Tuck

“I have been coming to Dimensions for seven years and I think it is brilliant. I can have signed conversations which is great, I have met lots of new friends and learnt lots of new skills. I have also learnt computer skills, organised a visit to see Newcastle United and I teach members volunteers and staff Deaf Awareness and basic British Sign Language.” Kevin Haslin

“Since I had my stroke and started to attend Dimensions it has given me the desire to get on with my life and improve my speech and basic skills plus learn new ones. I have several achievements including cooking, digital photography and painting. I have attended art workshops at the Library and the Coleridge Centre.” Phillip Robinson

Former Members Quotes

“My self esteem was at rock bottom before I came here. I now do voluntary work for DAD. My life is much better, I think that all disabled people should try Dimensions”. Margaret Langan. (Margaret is now employed by DAD as a Volunteer Project Assistant and also a Personal Assistant here at Dimensions).

“When I first became a member of Dimensions, I was very shy and withdrawn, I did not like change and I did not like speaking in public. How I have moved on. I can now answer and hold a conversation on the telephone and take messages correctly. I am not afraid to speak my mind, I feel much more independent and feel that I have more choice and I am equal amongst my peers. My interest's now have new horizons, I am not afraid of new challenges. I have proven this by going on to voluntary work as a receptionist at Age Concern.

I have also found that people ask me my opinions on disability issues and where I can I do try to be of help. I feel that the goals I set out to conquer when becoming a member of Dimensions have been fulfilled.

To any prospective member who is thinking about coming along to Dimensions I would say don't be afraid, take each step at a time and set your goals slowly, achieving them at your own level and speed (after all it has taken me approximately 7 years!). Remember you are not alone, Dimensions is there for you.

When I look back on my time before Dimensions, my days were so dismal and boring. Richard and Judy were a regular thing (boring or what?). Look at me and my achievements now!” Susan Angus.

“When I first came to Dimensions I was wary and did not know what to expect. When I got to know everyone I soon realised that I could achieve new skills. I could make my own decisions. I became more confident. I could see this was the right place to be at this time in my life. I would recommend Dimensions to anyone out there to gain the experience and opportunity to achieve what I have achieved. I would like to thank all the staff and volunteers for their encouragement and support they have given me.” June Wilson.

“Since coming to Dimensions my confidence has improved to the highest it has been for a long time. I now have the confidence to talk to people and use the telephone. This is due to interacting with people at Dimensions, College and Socially. I am now going out on my own, this has given me more independence. Making the decision to buy a mobility scooter. I am no longer dependant on my mum. I have really enjoyed coming to Dimensions, but now feel confident to move on with my life.” Sharon Barton.