Lived experience: Getting back into employment

“I initially self referred to the step program at The Cellar Trust in 2019. I had been out of work for 10 years, I had hit rock bottom, thought things would never improve and that life was no longer worth living. I was out of work due to ill health, leading to severe depression, generalised anxiety and a lack of self worth. I had become so fearful of work that it seemed like an impossibility.

Upon referring to The Cellar Trust I was given support with my general mental health difficulties as well as help building my self-esteem, support with coping strategies, developing and learning new skills and emotional support with any problems that arose. The staff at The Cellar Trust were always on hand and willing to help no matter the issue. They went above and beyond to help me achieve my goals. With the support of Will Vaughan, Jodie Denning and Greg Roberts I managed to gain employment. Without them this would never have happened. Referring to the service completely changed my life and I will be forever grateful for what they have done for me.

After gaining employment The Cellar Trust continued to support me and helped with any difficulties that I needed addressing.

I had a relapse with my mental health in 2020 and re-referred to The Cellar Trust, they once again showed amazing support and were completely non-judgemental about actions that I was very ashamed of. They have helped me to gain employment again through a work placement that they arranged for me and their support is currently ongoing.

I cannot thank them enough and would encourage anybody struggling to refer to the service for support.”