From wrestling to rugby, Morgan and Julian have been on so many adventures since they were matched in July 2024. We spoke to Morgan, his gig buddy Julian, and Morgan’s mum about how Gig Buddies has changed Morgan’s life.
Morgan’s mum told us this about Morgan’s involvement in the Gig Buddies project.
Morgan was too nervous to travel in the evening, he felt uncomfortable and intimidated especially around strangers. He can’t read well and can’t read the bus stop information and is too nervous to ask people. I sometimes go out with him, but he said he doesn’t want to go out with his mum. He wanted a gig buddy to talk to and go out in the evening with.
Morgan told us
“I decided to give Gig Buddies a go because as it felt that it was something that could give me the sense of connection, shared interest, fun and friendship I was seeking.
Morgan’s mum
“He loves his gig buddy. It has been fantastic. He has so much more independence. They talk about ‘men’s things’. They have a lot in common and go to events such as rugby and are trying different things such as ice hockey. There is an age difference but it doesn’t matter and it works because Julian is young in his outlook and Morgan is sensible. He feels safe with Julian, and he knows he is ‘responsible’. They have a similar sense of humour. They have a great friendship growing as Julian isn’t a family member or support worker. Morgan really trusts Julian and Morgan is much more confident too.”
Julian said the following about being a gig buddy volunteer:
“I met my buddy Morgan through one of the groups Speedmates nights in Cardiff. Although I met plenty of nice people on what was a fun and hectic evening I felt a real connection with Morgan through our shared hobbies and interests, his outlook on life and his infectious smile and fun attitude. As you could imagine I was really pleased that Morgan wanted to meet up and see if we’d like to build a longer term friendship. “Our first activity together was wrestling, new for me but something Morgan loves. It was great fun and we both really enjoyed it and the night was a success. Since our first meet up we get together once or twice a month for activities we pre plan.
“So far we’ve played pool, golf, watched Cardiff Rugby and been to a gig. We both love our food so always make sure we include lunch or dinner in our plans. Going forward we’ve planned days out watching Wales play in the Autumn Internationals, Ice Hockey in Cardiff Bay, Wales against Ireland in the Six Nations and of course more wrestling. “What’s most important in our relationship and perhaps different from formal caring roles is that we are first and foremost mates who have fun together and enjoy each others company. I just ensure Morgan feels safe, comfortable and confident and is able to do the things he wants. We choose the things we want to do together in partnership, happy to say no if we’re not interested in something but willing to give just about anything a go.
“Gig Buddies has introduced me to new friends and new experiences whilst also offering me the chance to do the things I love. Morgan and I have a really strong relationship and my involvement with Gig Buddies gives me a sense of fulfilment and fun.”
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