Nicky Crothers, who has cerebral palsy, can't imagine life without Barnabas. Nicky has used the service at Barnabas since she left school.


'Everyone is so friendly and there’s always lots to do,” she says. “I love that I can come here every day. I have made so many friends and Barnabas is a major part of my life. Without it I would be very lonely at home.'

Nicky enjoys helping out and making sure everyone feels welcome! 'Where I can, I try to help the team out by answering the phone and passing on messages. I like to bring the paper in everyday and read peoples' star signs to them.'

There is a wide range of activities and outings on offer at Barnabas, which Nicky enjoys: 'I go swimming a lot and we go on lots of trips – I really like Moors Valley Country Park, going to the cinema and shopping.'

Nicky recently took part in a drama workshop with a number of other people who attend Barnabas.

She continues: 'It’s all about respect: Everyone here is an individual and that’s exactly how everyone is treated; I feel safe here. It’s having the freedom to do what we want that makes Barnabas so special.'