Life before coming to these sessions was very lonely, because I didn’t have anyone to talk. I have no vision at all, so I was very isolated and I was feeling low and down. I’m a single mom with 6 children, so doing something for myself was important to me. I used to attend sessions down at Jubilee Park Centre, but no one used to talk to me hardly. I wanted to be able to come out of the house, to do something different and have someone to talk to. For me, I wanted to have a place where I could socialise and get to know other people. I wanted to feel good about myself. I wanted somewhere to go for me.
I was told by a friend about the sessions at St Johns, she recommended it. As I said, only a few people used to speak to me at Jubilee, but here is so different. Everyone talks to me, they acknowledge me, it’s just a really relaxed environment, everyone is so lovely. It’s just so nice. I feel better in myself, I feel happier. I enjoy myself; everyone is so helpful. I’m feeling more positive in myself. It’s something to look forward to on Wednesdays. I love it. I have been able to bring my children with me in the school holidays, which is really helpful and it’s such a nice place to be.
The group has been so good for me! I’ll continue coming and would love it if the arts and crafts lady came back. I really enjoyed those sessions, but I understand there’s a cost. Marie (volunteer) has been a great help to me. She’s helped me with so many things. She’s even come along to my home to collect me for group, so I can build my confidence in walking with my cane, as I normally come in a taxi.
If the service was not available, there would be a lot of people stuck in the house, stagnating which is bad for their mental health. We would have no-one to talk about our debts/problems to. We wouldn’t get to meet new friends.
