Eileen said: “I was in a dark place and reached out to the Community Mental Health Team, who took me to various places in the community, including The Salvation Army. I stopped here for a little drink and chat, and when I was able to leave the house by myself, I still came here and started speaking to people who were so kind and supportive. They told me they had volunteer roles here, which was a good way to get into the community and be around people. I was invited in for an interview and started volunteering in the charity shop. It’s been fantastic for my confidence – I made friends and started volunteering at jumble sales at the weekend.”
Eileen then met Precious Collins, an Employment Development Coordinator who helped Eileen build up her CV, undertook a number of courses online, and when she moved home, she applied for a job with Precious’ support. After a successful interview, she got a job as a cleaner in a warehouse and has now branched out on her own, cleaning boats in the marina and the homes of people where she works.
Eileen said: “Even now, if I am having a bad day, this is where I end up. The people here are so supportive and Precious has been fantastic. Even though I’m now in full-time employment, she keeps in touch with me to make sure things are going well and to see if I need any extra support. She wrote me a reference for my new job, and I feel great.”