Meet Reagan- an inspiration to all!
Reagan with Matt Murphy from the Liverpool Football Club Foundation, and Sally Tittle, SEND Manager (Stakeholder Engagement) at Wirral Council
This is a story of resilience, hard work, dedication and overcoming barriers to find success!
Reagan is a dynamic young lady who at 23 has overcome many barriers and challenges to education and employment. Reagan has Down syndrome and complex learning disabilities. Reagan has always loved expressing herself through being creative. It was her dream to become an artist. Her resilience and passion for art and design have helped her achieve the success she is now enjoying.
Setting up her own studio
Two years ago, Reagan, with support from the Local Authority and her mum, set up a textile studio space at the Environmental Innovation Centre (EIC ) in Birkenhead. She named it the Silly Goose University. Why not!
Reagan worked tirelessly at her art. Creating inventive designs and improving her skills. And now all her hard work has paid off! She has just completed a GCSE in Art Textiles. A positive result is on the cards for August.
As well as being creative, Reagan is also a keen footballer. She has played for many years with the Liverpool Football Club Foundation. And they have supported Reagan’s artistic ambition, cheering her on at every step of the way!
You can check out Reagan's fantastic work on Instagram: @reagan_makes
One of Reagan’s creations
“Some people thought I couldn’t do this, but the people who know me knew I could! They cheered me on and now I want to learn more things with mum and my teacher Rachael.”
Helping others
As well as focussing on her career as an artist, Reagan wants to give back and help others find joy in art. She knows how important it is for young people with SEND to feel connected. Over the last two years, Reagan has given her time to help other young adults with SEND. Providing them with opportunities to express their creativity, along with her teacher, Rachael, and mum, Vicky.
In October 2024, Reagan hosted a pumpkin carving day, for 25 people of all ages. It was a huge success. People are already asking to book in advance for this Halloween!
Reagan also hosted two Christmas craft days. She taught people how to make Christmas wreaths, table centres and tree decorations. Everyone enjoyed this calm and creative experience amongst the hustle and bustle of the Christmas period.
On Wednesday evenings, Reagan hosts a mindfulness and chat group. She offers tea and a chat. Everyone completes a mindfulness exercise from colouring in pictures to painting or sewing.
Offering these sessions has been really valued by the group members, especially during the darker, colder months when so many people often feel isolated. Having a safe and inclusive space has made this possible and Reagan has been really well supported by Johnathan Quinn and the team at EIC.
Reagan in her creative space
What Next?
Reagan plans to continue welcoming in young adults with SEND so they can have a regular opportunity for art. She wants to help them find their inner creativity and lead a positive and fulfilled life. The sessions also offer an opportunity for parents and carers to meet up.
The Wednesday sessions will resume in June and these will be advertised in the What’s On section of SENDLO.
Day: Wednesday
Time: 4-6pm
Venue: Silly Goose University, EIC Campbell Town Road, Birkenhead, CH41 9HP
Age: 14 onwards
Please note: Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
For more information email: vickymumof2@hotmail.com