Meet Jenna

“I wanted to be the support for children that I never felt I had growing up,”

At 19, Jenna was referred to COVEY during a time when life felt incredibly isolating. Living with partial sight and autism, everyday activities like going out or socialising felt daunting. Travelling independently was difficult, and confidence was low after challenging school years where support was often lacking.

But everything began to change with COVEY.

Starting with a one-to-one befriending match, Jenna experienced support that felt completely different from anything before - personal, consistent, and centred around individual needs. What seemed like small steps, like ordering a drink at a café or going for a walk, became empowering milestones. These regular outings didn’t just offer fresh air; they sparked confidence and nurtured a love for both nature and creativity, rekindling an old passion for arts and crafts.

As Jenna’s confidence grew, so did the possibilities. With encouragement from her befriender, a new chapter began - volunteering at a local nursery. Initially supported by COVEY side-by-side, Jenna eventually thrived independently in the role, spending over a year helping young children and discovering a passion for working with those who have additional support needs.

“I wanted to be the support for children that I never felt I had growing up,” Jenna shares. That desire made volunteering with COVEY’s Clydesdale ANGELS group a natural next step - and it’s been a perfect match. Now, after over a year with the group, Jenna is a valued and much-loved volunteer.

“The young people tell me I’m understanding and easy to talk to. That means so much. I see parts of myself in them, and I learn from them all the time.”

Outside of volunteering, Jenna has achieved incredible personal and academic milestones - completing four years of college with qualifications in Life Skills, Employability, Retail, and Care. Today, she works as a taxi escort for children with additional support needs - a role that fits her passions and purpose perfectly.

“COVEY helped me see what I could do. It changed me as a person. I’m more confident, more accepting of who I am, and proud of how far I’ve come.”

We’re so proud to spotlight Jenna - a shining example of how personalised support, encouragement, and the right opportunities can open up a world of potential. From participant to dedicated volunteer, her journey continues to inspire everyone at COVEY.