THE good work done at Sale-based disability charity, Stockdales, is far-reaching – with a helping hand offered from more than 500 miles away.

Melissa Dorrestein, 17, from Holland, knew of Stockdales due to a family connection in the UK. When she was tasked with finding a work placement overseas, she decided to ask Stockdales whether they could help her.

The teen, who is hoping to study medicine in the future, volunteered at Stockdales for just over two weeks. She spent time supporting the team in the Community Services department, helping out in the many sessions they run and getting to know the service users.

Melissa said: “I have got so much out of my time at Stockdales. I didn’t have experience of working with people with learning disabilities – so it’s been great for that. I feel like I’m better at communicating and I’ve been able to brush up on my English as well. I have been amazed by the staff at Stockdales. They are so good at what they do.”