"This professional caring service"

I wanted to share my story of the fantastic, invaluable support I received when I was off work with stress and depression. 

I was initially struggling alone and not finding the right support. When I was referred to working win it was so much better. I worked with a number of people, all of whom were amazing, caring, listened and provided timely support and guidance in a way I could digest this. The support was also good as it was at the pace I could deal with and relevant to how I was feeling and what I was dealing with at the time. They pushed me a little each time I spoke to them but not where it was something I could not deal with at the time. 

I had a health and well-being coach (Nisa) who guided me through what I was dealing with emotionally and helped me to see them from a different perspective. She gave me tips and listened and empathised, all of which made a big difference. Her manner and gentle approach encouraged me to be kind to myself. On a couple tough times Nisa added urgent calls in to support me with specific needs. For example preparing for a meeting by helping me structure my thoughts and writing down. She was also there for support post a difficult meeting to help me distill information and calm me down. I really appreciated this help and support. 

I was also supported by an senior employment specialist (Sarah) who was always so upbeat and had excellent intuition and empathy which she used to judge what was the best support appropriate at a meeting. These sessions were very helpful in encouraging me to look at what I enjoyed doing at work, identifying my skills and looking at what may fit me better in the future. I am not well enough right now to take this leap but the work undertaken helped me focus on the positives and will be used once I feel I’m in a better place with my mental health. 

Other support that I was referred to from working win 

- Citizens advice (Carey) who helped me on form completion and advised on benefits. Very helpful and pleasant and kind manner 

- legal advice which was very helpful and offered some peace of mind 

- Counselling support which has been an essential part of my journey. 

Everyone has been so kind, considerate and provided very Individual tailored support to me and my needs. 

I would highly recommend this professional caring service which has been so important to me in my recovery. I could rely on the contacts and knew on each occasion they would be helpful, even at my lowest points. 

Thank you all so much, you are stars.