“I have become more aware of what I am already doing and this is validating eg how I am already handling flashbacks. I feel like I already have a foot in the door with changing, I already know a little bit, rather than feeling daunted by therapy which ‘teaches me’.”

“I came to the project after a pretty severe mental breakdown and the breakdown of my relationship left me facing homelessness…I had attempted to end my life. I had no hope for the future. My life was full of chaos; I was living with an abusive partner; she would throw me out of the house with my belongings almost daily…I was completely alone and isolated and trusted no one.

When I first came to YWHP, I was afraid. I wasn’t used to people asking me if I was okay, or caring about my well-being. I was constantly eaten up by paranoia – thinking they hated me and didn’t think I deserved to be there… it was such a relief to have a place to come, full of warmth and stability and caring people, who refused to give up. I started the ‘escape the trap’ healthy relationships programme, which brought me out of my denial. With the therapy I have received at the project, I met another person who refused to give up…Having that therapy has changed my life… I can now say that I am excited for the future…I have been rebuilding my life, focusing on building healthy relationships and looking to the future. I have never felt this stability and positivity before and I certainly never would’ve experienced any of this without the help from the YWHP.”

“Really enjoyed socialising and the laughter. The makeup course has built all our confidence and our friendships…improved my confidence, improved social isolation, improved our mental health and Education”