Our stories

Ivan is reunited with sister

Ivan, 26, has learning disabilities and is supported by United Response in Derby. This January, Ivan's dream came true when he met his sister, Zena, for the first time in 17 years.

Ivan's support worker, Daniel Nyoka, says:"I have supported Ivan for four years - he is a jolly and confident character. Every year I support him to see his grandma, who visits from Jamaica. They have a good relationship and I thought the last visit would be just like any other - little did I know she had a surprise up her sleeve…!"

Unbeknown to Ivan, his grandma had been telling his younger sister, Zena, about these trips. Zena had not seen him since he was eight years old.

Intrigued to find out more about her brother, Zena asked her grandma to pass on her details to Ivan, in the hope he would want to get in touch.

"We were really pleased about the prospect of Ivan being reunited with another member of his family," says Daniel, "As he is non-verbal, we tried to see what he thought by showing him old photos of his family and talking about his sister to see how he reacted. When he became excited it was clear he would respond well to a reunion."

Daniel got in touch with Zena and they agreed to support Ivan to visit her at her home in Nottingham Bullwell. "We didn't know what to expect," says Daniel, "But Zena was keen to find out about his life. What was interesting was how Ivan reacted to her - normally, he is shy around strangers, but this time, he sat next to her and held her hand."

Ivan's sister has since agreed to have a more active role in his life, acting as signatory on documents concerning his welfare.

They have met up for a second time, where they shared a meal in a hotel near where Zena lives. This time, she introduced him to her young son, who responded well to his uncle. Daniel is hopeful for the future: "I am so pleased for Ivan now. He has his sister back in his life. I'm sure it will be a positive experience for everyone."