Matt’s Journey - from isolation to connection

When Matt joined Tracks&Dales, he was in his early twenties and had spent much of his childhood being homeschooled. While this had been an important part of his upbringing, it had also meant that he had fewer opportunities to socialise and develop friendships with people his own age.

As a result, Matt has found social situations difficult and has struggled to build a social network. He currently lives at home with his parents and doesn’t have many hobbies or activities outside of the family and his work. His brother lives away from home, and although Matt would like to see him more, this can also be difficult.

Matt works for his parents’ company, but he would like to eventually do something different and develop more independence in his life. At the moment, however, he doesn’t feel that he has the confidence to take that step.

Getting involved with Tracks&Dales has given Matt something that is his own. Time outdoors has provided an escape from the familiar routine of home and work and, importantly, an opportunity to experience new places and situations in a supportive environment.

For Matt, these experiences are helping to build confidence gradually. Being able to get out, try something different and spend time around other people is giving him a sense of what may be possible in the future.

The hope is that, as Matt’s confidence continues to grow, he will feel increasingly able to access activities independently. This could open the door to developing new interests, meeting people and ultimately building friendships.

Tracks&Dales has given Matt a starting point—a chance to step outside his usual routine and begin exploring what life could look like beyond the boundaries of home and work.

While he may not feel ready to make big changes yet, each step outdoors is helping Matt build the confidence and independence he needs to take those steps in the future.