"I don’t think anything could have been better"

My experience of the Social Inclusion and Wellbeing Service (SIWS) has been very, very positive. When I moved to the outskirts of Nottingham, I was bored and lonely. I spoke to my psychiatrist, who referred me to the SIWS to help me find activities. They came to the house, told me about the service and what they did. They asked me what I was interested in.

I have just finished a photography course, which was fantastic. I enrolled at the Recovery College, which was also brilliant. I have done Stress and Anxiety Management, and some 1 day courses. I have another 2 terms. With Nature in Mind, I went to the Peak District, on a canal trip and a 10 mile bike ride. Before I joined the service, I tried to kill myself. I had trouble with benefits and things got on top of me. I cut myself off and didn’t want to go out and mix.

The SIWS staff were very supportive. I have ADHD and have to do a journey several times before I know the landmarks. They accompanied me. Through these activities, I have met people and heard their experiences. It has made me much more sociable. I have been on my own for 8 years and have now met someone on the photography course. Before, I didn’t feel confident talking to women. I learned a lot, too.

I don’t think anything could have been better. It has surpassed my expectations. The whole experience was positive. Before, I would only go out if I had to and didn’t like travelling on public transport. I didn’t really want to do the activities but they had a far bigger impact than I expected.