Tom’s Story – Part 2

Last month we showed you a first-hand insight into the life of one of our clients, Tom, and his journey with us here at Arc, here is part 2. 

Please note that names in this story have been changed for privacy purposes.

It’s been four months now since I started living at Lindley House. I’ve had my first counselling session to help me cope with the trauma from my previous relationship, which was really helpful. I’ve also been given support with my drinking and managed to reduce my daily alcohol consumption. My support worker has really helped me each time I’ve felt like giving up, and I now have more self-belief that I can achieve my goals if I take baby steps. I’m not expecting this process to be easy, and I know that I might take some steps backwards, but with the support around me, I know that I can get to where I want to be.

My cooking classes have been going really well, and I’ve also been helping out in the kitchen at Lindley House, preparing meals for other clients to enjoy. It’s been great to use my skills and focus on learning new cooking techniques and recipes.

My support worker is really pleased with my progress, and she thinks I’m ready to move out of Lindley House and into Arc’s Satellite accommodation where I can be more independent. I’m feeling nervous about the move, but I think it will be a step in the right direction to where I want to be.

***

It’s been a strange transition from Lindley House to Satellite accommodation, and I’m learning to be more independent. Although I’m living with seven other people, it’s much quieter and calmer than life at Lindley. There’s a shared kitchen, which means I can put my cooking skills to good use. I’ve got a new support worker now, and he’s helping me with my aims for the future — and even helped me to get back in touch with my son after six months. I’m hopeful that we can have regular contact from now on. Things really are looking up.