"Gaining confidence"

A few months ago, I was referred the Social Inclusion and Wellbeing Service. My confidence was rock bottom. I was staying in the house a lot and getting on a tram gave me panic attacks.

I met S for an initial chat and we started looking at things to do to get out of the house. I joined the Monday group, from 2 to 5, a big group. We met at Debenhams for coffee and a chat. When it gets warmer, they go on outings. Then I stated doing voluntary work on a Monday. I was working in a Day Centre, in a small group, so it was more relaxed. It was the Carers Trust.

Staff were very nice. S showed me opportunities on the Do-it website and I applied for a few. It was interesting. There were some people with dementia. We were supporting people doing things they remembered, playing cards and dominoes. There were 3 staff and volunteers, so it was one-to-one. It helped me loads – built up my confidence. Then S told me about a job, working on bank in a Care Home. She checked with me if it was too soon – but I felt ready and applied and got the job. It’s different to what I have done before as a Care Assistant. It involves a lot more communication with outside contractors. It will involve training.

The only concern I have about the service is that initially we were only given 3 months, which would have been too rushed. Luckily, it worked out for me and I got an extension due to finding work. As I am about to be discharged from services, I am joining a group (Fit for Work) for support in work.