“Following my sentence my whole world seemed to fall down around me. I’d lost my job, I became incredibly insular, I’d been diagnosed with depression and anxiety. I also engaged in substance misuse (in my case alcohol) I felt angry the world was against me.
“Poor me, poor me, pour me another one.”
Ian, one of our personal wellbeing service users, shares his experiences. The service helps provide support to people on probation with their wellbeing, lifestyle, and community integration.
My probation officer suggested that I attend this group called Nacro.
I was pleasantly surprised. We all took our seats – each with their own welcome pack, a notebook, and a pen. I felt welcomed (and yes there were biscuits on the table.) It was immediately apparent that this was not like other groups I’d been on.
We were asked what we wanted to discuss and then off it started.
Nervous at first, I just observed. People were free to discuss whatever it was on their mind, but no pressure was put on anybody.
Over the next couple of weeks, I un-scrunched my shoulders and unfolded my arms. This was a safe space where we could talk about stuff. Over the next month or two we had guest speakers: ex-offenders, people with lived experience. It was inspiring.
An artist that had managed to turn his negative experience into a positive. A musician that had won a BAFTA for songwriting. We had bonded as a group.
We had been invited to the House of Lords to represent people with lived experience: “Wow! We have a voice!” a group of us went. I cannot tell you how important that was for all of us.
I’m now working, giving back to society.”
We understand that recovery isn’t always a straightforward journey, that’s why we never give up. We are there for people to start again, no matter how many times it takes.
Find out more about our personal wellbeing and mental health services here.
