Steve Hanlon, Trustee
Hi. I’m Steve and I have recently been appointed as a Trustee of Ordinary Lifestyles.
I’m married and have two grown up children. My daughter has moderate to severe learning difference, and some physical challenges that require support. She lives with her mum and I.
My experience of what can improve the life of someone with these differences has developed profoundly over the years. My daughter and I have benefitted significantly from the input of a variety of dedicated and hardworking professionals during this time. My exposure to their kindness, commitment and enthusiasm has increased my desire to try to help others as we have been assisted.
We first came across Ordinary Lifestyles during the pandemic when my daughter and I took part in the Tuesday evening online disco and bingo. Very occasionally when Andy, the DJ and bingo caller, is unavailable I take on these roles; my daughter makes sure I get the calls right! My daughter, my wife and I also attend the monthly Gold Disco at Altrincham.
I started my professional life hoping to become a solicitor, having obtained a law degree from the University of Warwick. However, I quickly changed tack and worked as a civil servant. I retired from public service after a 30 year career and decided to re-train as a teacher at Bolton University. Having obtained a PGCE and Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills status, I teach English to 16 to 19 year olds at an FE college. I find this particularly rewarding as I am not only able to improve the English skills of my learners but I am also able to impart wider skills based on my work and life experiences.
I used to play rugby union quite amateurishly for many years, and though I am now much too old to play contact sports I enjoy running and going to the gym. I also love walking our dog, Lola. Not unsurprisingly as an English teacher, I read a lot, especially various kinds of fiction from Ian Rankin to James Baldwin and everything in between and beyond.
