Weekly Evidence Checklist: Week 20 – Mencap Gateway Bronze Award (Plus Family & Nature Updates)

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Happy Sunday, everyone! It’s time for my quick 5-minute weekly checklist to document my progress for the Mencap Gateway Bronze Award. This week has been incredibly special, filled with beautiful nature, steady routines, a little chaos and a very memorable family celebration.

​Here is my evidence submission for Week 20:

​1. Volunteering (Walk for Autism)

  • ​Status: Completed previously.

​2. Fitness (Nature Walk)

  • ​Activity: Prescribe Nature at Newbattle Abbey College (Week 6), a journey to the Isle of Lewis and Gabriels woodland activities at Squirrels. 
  • ​Evidence
  • ​Reflections: This week marked Week 6 of the Prescribe Nature programme at Newbattle Abbey College, where we made some bird hides. It was another deeply enriching week of nature-based activities, reminding me once again that the outdoors continues to be a profound source of healing and joy. In addition to the programme, I enjoyed some breathtaking views on the Isle of Lewis this week and also helped Gabriel make woodland trolls at 🐿 Squirrels. 

​3. Hobby: The Digital Parish & Daily Office

  • ​Activity: Prayer and documenting reflections on life and faith here on the blog.
  • ​Reflections: Continuing to find grounding and peace. 

​4. Personal Challenge

  • ​Status: Previously submitted.

​5. Lifestyle (Sensory & Advocacy)

  • ​Activity: Managing daily regulation and keeping up with advocacy.
  • ​Reflections: I am continuing to use the Finch app to stay on top of my daily routines. For sensory regulation, I’ve been relying on my Squiggle Society and other art supplies, various fidgets, and sensory snacks to keep balanced.
  • ​Advocacy Work: This week involved staying organized and keeping in touch with essential services as is the norm for a complex needs family. This included supporting Lilianna at Bright Sparks ASN group.

​Special Weekly Update: Family Time on the Isle of Lewis

​Beyond my award checklist, the absolute highlight of my week was traveling to the beautiful Isle of Lewis for my niece Felicity’s wedding! It was a wonderful occasion filled with love, and it was so special to spend time celebrating with family in such a stunning part of the world.

​How has your week been? Thank you for following along on my Mencap Gateway Bronze Award journey!

A Highland Theological College graduate and non-conformist follower of Jesus living at the crossroads of neurodiversity and faith. Writing on the wild grace of the Gospel.

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