"He actually really does care"

I’ve been getting support from Nigel for about five years now.  It actually might be longer than that, but I’m not great with dates and remembering things.

When I first met Nigel, I was using heroin and crack and anything else I could get my hands on.  But today I’m totally drug free, and I’ve not used anything for about 3 years.

I’ve faced a lot of challenges in my life, including mental health issues like hearing voices, which I do get some support and medication for. But for me, even though I’ve got a GP and a mental health worker, it’s been Nigel who has made all the difference.  It’s felt like he’s always been there when I’ve needed his support.  Whether I’ve just needed an appointment for a drug test or to confide in him when I’ve been feeling down.  Or needed help to stop craving drugs when an old mate has offered them to me.  He’s been there ready to listen, support and encourage me.

I feel like people like Nigel are rare.  When I speak to him I can tell that he actually really does care.  In my eyes he’s gone above and beyond, and I want people to know that he is the one who has helped me to get strong enough to not just stop using drugs but also stay off them.

I genuinely feel like he’s helped to save my life.  Thank you, Nigel, you have been golden.