Nicholas’s Story

In the beginning….

I first encountered Working for Health at a wellbeing event at Britannia House. The staff were incredibly understanding and compassionate and explained about the Inspire Programme, answering all my questions thoroughly and honestly.

At this point I had been unemployed for two years with no direction or purpose and my mental health was rapidly declining. However, the Working for Health staff didn’t focus on my employment status but focused on my wellbeing instead, which helped break down some of the
barriers I had when engaging with external organisations in the past.

How we helped you….

At the first appointment I spoke with my Work Coach about what I would like to achieve on the Inspire programme and we set goals that were person centred and accurate and agreed on timescales which felt achievable and comfortable to me. This gave me a real routine and structure. We continued to build momentum in this way, and I could feel my confidence and self-esteem growing with each session.

When I felt ready, I spoke about exploring animal care as an area that I was passionate about. Together we researched some voluntary positions and completed the paperwork and assessments. This felt like real progression for me in my ongoing personal development. I then attended the RSPCA for an appointment. Staff were very kind and considerate and I spoke about my ambitions to work in this sector and they have offered me a volunteering role, working with the dogs, walking them daily and ensuring they are fed and watered.

The Future….

I am looking at enrolling onto some animal care courses to continue to build my knowledge and skills in an area I am deeply passionate about.

I am really excited about my future, the volunteering role and the continued support from my Work Coach on the Inspire programme. In the space of four months, my world has changed drastically. I now have a purpose, routine and direction to my life and my mental health is starting to improve as a result.