DETERMINED SCOTS PALS WITH DOWN’S SYNDROME LAUNCH OWN BUSINESS DELIVERING PET FOOD
Source: The Scottish Sun (Extract)
Posted: July 26, 2020
Determined Will Campbell has set up his own business delivering pet food – and now hopes to work with other youngsters.
The 20-year-old, who has Down’s Syndrome, launched Will And Friends which delivers dog food straight to customers’ doors.
Getting the business established has been a family affair, with Will’s brother Ed and sister Bethan helping with deliveries and social media.
And he’s teamed up with best friend Alex O’Donnell, 21, who also has Down’s Syndrome, to help run the company.
The pair have been friends since meeting at Isobel Mair School in Newton Mearns in 2007.
Will’s mum Gerri, from Giffnock, said: “When young adults come out of school and go to college, there’s nothing. We wanted them to have meaningful employment and to be able to stay together and still see each other.
“With coronavirus, there are even fewer options for employment. We knew we wanted friends involved and Alex was number one on the list.”
Will, who had the final say on the name and logo, said: “I really like the name and the branding. I’m hoping to get some of my other friends involved too.”
The business, which delivers city-wide in Glasgow, was set up during lockdown.
The lads, who attend West College Scotland in Paisley, are only now able to start working together because of social distancing.
Alex’s mum Lian, 53, said: “They always have something on, so lockdown has been hard. We’ve tried to keep a routine for them. They’ve both coped incredibly well.”
Gerri added: “The boys are so capable and Will And Friends gives them a chance. It’s hard making your way in the world but this gives them a wage and they are learning great skills.”
Orders are placed online, the team stock up at the cash and carry before delivering the meals.
Will, who helps look after family dog Spike, added: “My dad, my mum, my brother and sister drive me. We have been busy.”
Alex, also from Giffnock, said: “Will’s my best friend. We will be back to college in September but we can absolutely do this and college.”
Gerri, 53, said: “They’ll start doing the whole thing and we’ll take a step back. But we are hoping to expand once we’ve seen how it works here.
“The boys should have their own lives – and this will let them have their own lives. It’s great for the community to see what young adults are capable of.”
For more info see willandfriends.co.uk
