George’s Story.
George was referred to Moving On in June 2010, by Advocacy West Lancashire with anxiety and low self esteem. He had confined himself to staying in his own home, not going out, as he felt intimidated by people living around him. He initially attended one to one sessions with a view to progressing on to small groups to raise his confidence around being with others. George began having acupuncture to help with his anxiety and sleep patterns, this was helping but he was reluctant to take part in any other activities.
George was eventually challenged about this, and reluctantly agreed to attend a small art group, where he discovered he had a real talent. He was then introduced into other groups where he flourished, progressing into larger groups, becoming a confident and well liked member of the group. He was meanwhile dealing with his housing situation, as he still felt like a prisoner in his own home, but he now had the confidence to try and deal with this. He was advised to go to his local housing association and was eventually given another property. This too had its problems, but George now felt able and confident enough to report these and get it resolved.
George was now enjoying his time at Moving On, and was thinking about attending a counselling course at the local college. It was at this time he realised that a lot of his problems were to do with living in the area, so he took steps to see if it was possible to move away and start afresh.
In July 2011 George was informed he had been successful in securing a property in the Lake District with the support of his housing association. He is now living in Kendal; he is an active volunteer on a local organic farm, has been offered exhibition space by a local art group and is learning new skills on a daily basis. He is now considering enrolling on a counselling course with a view to helping others who are having difficulties. He is now an active, confident person and keeps us informed of his progression.
George’s statement
After many traumatic events in my life, I developed some serious mental health problems; as a result I had isolated myself from society totally for a period of approximately 10 years. Following the breakdown of my relationship as a result of my problems, I quickly realised I had to act, the wolves were at my door and I had no idea what to do. I contacted Advocacy West Lancs. Who were a great help, their advice and guidance stopped me feeling helpless and alone, but perhaps the best thing they did for me was to put me in touch with Moving On.
Though I found it daunting at first to attend even one to one sessions, I was determined to carry on and with much encouragement from staff at Moving On I eventually started to attend various groups which I enjoyed immensely. I started to regain confidence, being able to talk to people who had similar problems in the groups was a great help.
With the help of everyone at Moving On, staff and other service users I have turned my life around and am now working as a volunteer whilst training to work in care. I will always be grateful to all the staff and the many friends I made at Moving On.
THANK YOU ALL!
