These are the journeys of a lifetime

Growing up, Tova had some lovely classmates who cared for her deeply and she truly valued their friendship. However, learning and socialising in the same way as her peers wasn’t always possible, and she longed for connections where she could be herself with others who truly understood her.

At just 12 years old, Tova’s parents knew something had to change. They reached out to Kisharon Langdon, and soon after, Tova joined the Brady Youth programme. From her very first sessions, something shifted.

For the first time, Tova was surrounded by people who understood her. Week by week, she formed genuine friendships, built on shared experiences, laughter and equality. During the school holidays, Brady Youth holiday schemes became a lifeline: joyful and enriching for Tova, and a source of reassurance and support for her parents.

Most importantly, Tova began to relax. She no longer had to mask who she was. Before Brady Youth, Tova often spoke in a whisper, carefully trying to please everyone around her. But in this safe, nurturing environment, she found her confidence and her voice.

Once she finished school, moving on to Kisharon Langdon College felt like coming home. Familiar faces, trusted staff, and friends from Brady Youth made the transition feel natural and secure. The College’s warm, family atmosphere and strong Jewish values were especially meaningful to Tova and her family. The routine, structure and sense of belonging helped her flourish.

Through work experience, Tova discovered her independence. She learned to express her opinions, to advocate for herself, and to stand tall. Drama classes became a highlight, building her confidence even further. Rehearsing for end-of-term performances, and seeing her family in the audience, fills Tova with such pride. She is taking part in the same milestones as her siblings, feeling truly connected within her family and community.

Today, Tova’s journey continues. Her parents know that the future holds new challenges, but is also filled with hope and opportunity.

With ongoing support from Kisharon Langdon’s employment programmes, social enterprises and community programming, Tova will continue to grow in an environment that feels safe, familiar and full of possibility.

Chaim Dovid says “I enjoy my job because staff really listen, they tell me they learn more from me than from books. It makes me feel proud and useful.”

The feedback from NHS staff has been outstanding. Many describe the sessions as invaluable and say they gain insights they could never get from a textbook – only from hearing firsthand from someone with lived experience.

She works in a nursery, where her kindness touches the hearts of young children every day, and her creativity shines through her passion for art. Determined to push herself even further, Channi broke barriers and bravely took on a fundraising skydive for Kisharon Langdon alongside her support worker Georgia.

Channi says, “I love living in Kisharon Langdon, it's a home.”

With unwavering support, she is building a future full of possibility. Channi isn’t just living, she’s thriving, with pride in everything she achieves.

Lizzie is growing in confidence in a nurturing environment where she feels truly valued and accepted. Lizzi especially enjoys her regular work experience at Kisharon Noé School, where she reads with the pupils - a role that brings her pride and joy.

Her next step was Kisharon Langdon College, where she explored her passions and dreamed of greater independence. With our support, Deena moved into one of our, fully-adapted Supported Living homes with her best friends, and through our comprehensive community programme, Deena’s days are filled with activities she loves, from bowling to arts and crafts, bringing her joy and fulfilment.

Deena’s mother, Sylvia says, “It’s hard to keep up with her busy schedule! The Friday Night Dinners, where Deena and her friends prepare and host Shabbat, are truly heartwarming. Kisharon Langdon’s unique support is invaluable, we couldn’t imagine our journey without them.”

Today, he proudly shares his progress, surrounded by friends who celebrate him for who he is. His humour lights up every room, and his resilience drives him forward. Step by step, he has found his place, his confidence and his future.

“I feel really lucky to be at something like Kisharon Langdon. It’s like a place that can help people become who they’re meant to be”.

From choosing what to wear to enjoying a full social programme, every step is a triumph of independence and dignity. She brings light to everyone she meets, and Kisharon Langdon brings reassurance to her family for the future.

Leah’s story is one of love, empowerment and belonging.

Marc’s passions are DJ’ing, cycling, working hard and living independently.

Marc says: “The reason Kisharon Langdon’s support makes a difference in my life is that I can now do so many things that I was not able to do before, I see friends regularly go to activities and socialise. It gives me the confidence to be more outgoing and more expressive and feel part of a community and a family.”