Twenty-year-old Leo Hayes is an aspiring actor from Wolverhampton. Leo is always on the move, travelling over to Coventry to go to Hereward College for his love of drama.
Due to lockdown restrictions, we spoke virtually with Leo via video call with his lovely support worker Harriet Davies from Helping Hands. Leo always has a beaming smile on his face; he has a huge enthusiasm for acting and his other hobbies.
Leo’s dream is to be a television actor, and he is well on his way to achieving this after appearing on Doc Martin alongside Martin Clunes. Leo had an amazing time down in Port Isaac and he is still in regular contact with the actor. He said: “It was amazing. He’s a very nice man”.
What was it like being on Doc Martin?
“I met all the actors, I got lots of photos with everyone. I loved it. I got a signed script from everyone and a little goodie bag too. I did loads!”
Although acting and drama are Leo’s favourite things to do, he has many other hobbies too.
“I like to go on my computer and create PowerPoints. I like cooking, and doing arts and crafts.”
At the moment, Leo and his support workers are putting together a PowerPoint of what Leo does every day. Leo recently created a musical collage; a fantastic way to bring two of his passions together – and doesn’t it look fantastic!
Do you enjoy having your support workers with you?
“Yeah, they’re all really nice. I really enjoy it.”
Leo and his support workers have just started a summer savings fund for day trips when Leo is off college in the summer holidays. At the moment, they’re looking at the Black Country Museum, volunteering at a dog’s home, and the Sea Life Centre.
Leo often cooks with his support workers from Helping Hands, and before speaking with me they had made a stir-fry with homemade spring rolls!
Leo’s support worker, Harriet Davies, said:
“Leo is such a joy to be around he’s a bundle of happiness and spreads it everywhere he goes. He’s one of my favourite calls and the activities we get up to are always exciting, from cooking to singing along to musical theatre, there’s never a dull day!”
A helping hand
Young adult support from Helping Hands is designed to fit in around your usual routines and hobbies, so that you don’t have to compromise on your lifestyle. With visits from as little as 30 minutes, to round-the-clock assistance with a live in support worker, whatever you require, we can empower you to live independently.
