Forty-eight-year-old Yvonne lives with HFT, a national charity for people with learning disabilities, at its supported living scheme in Garforth and for most of her life has wanted to work with animals and own her own dog.

Staff at HFT discovered her dream and with the support of HFT unit manager, Jane Archdale, Yvonne went to a Dogs Trust open day last year and applied for a volunteer position walking the dogs at Woodlands Farm.

She now goes there independently every Friday and has never missed a session whatever the weather.

"Those dogs haven't got anyone and they need me," she said.
Yvonne has also worked in her local pet shop, Pets at Home, in Colton for over three years.

She has two pets of her own, a rabbit and a guinea pig, and with the staff at HFT is now looking into the practicalities of owning her own dog too.

"Yvonne is an inspirational character, lively and full of enthusiasm,." said Jane Archdale.

"The staff at HFT are very keen to support people with learning disabilities to make their own choices and decisions so that they can live fulfilling lives and realise their dreams and amibitons like Yvonne."

HFT has been in Leeds since 1987 and provides a range of services for people with learning disabilities, including residential, supported living and day services for 65 people in 16 houses in four areas of the city.