"SPAN provides a safe environment"

When I first came to SPAN I felt anxious and vulnerable as I suffer from schizophrenia and depression. The support from staff and peers has been very good and has helped me develop. I have been able to learn new skills and passed some IT exams which I would have found difficult in a mainstream college. I also found the work support course very informative although, because of my mental illness, I have been unable to get a paid job. I still do some voluntary work to occupy myself, get current experience and put on my cv.

Being at SPAN provides a safe environment and has helped me cope with my illness. The staff are understanding and helpful especially when I find it difficult to concentrate and remember things. The small sized group and more individual tuition make all the difference as well as being able to work at my own pace. I also feel less isolated.