"My keyworker"

I first joined CGL as a service user a few months ago. I was allocated a key worker - Adrian. He has made a real impact on my recovery journey. I had never been in a service before so did not know what to expect and was apprehensive talking about my issues. When Adrian first introduced himself to me he immediately put me at ease with his calm, professional manner. Following this initial meeting he then introduced me to the different sessions available and what to expect and how to engage with these. I haven't looked back. 

Adrian runs a session called 'retrain your brain'. I have attended each of these and i can say that each and every session has literally changed my way of thinking. His approach is unique. It is evidence-based, using a range of different theories. This may sound daunting to some, and confusing, however Adrian applies this theory in practical aspects for the service users, so that they can apply this into their recovery journey. This then allows the meetings to be constructive and user led, which is important because fellow service users can learn from each other and help each other in their recovery journey. 

Not being settled with just talking, Adrian consistently uses what i call a multi-sensory approach to delivering the sessions and it is something i have rarely seen before, even in the training as individuals we would have received during our lifetime. For example, watching videos that relate to the theme of the session, which we then speak about afterwards and reflect on and apply to our recovery journey. Another example is at the beginning of the session he asks how we have been this past week, he shows genuine interest and care for the people in the group when asking this and allows us to reflect and see what we could have done differently, celebrating the positives as well as constructively working out how to come through the negatives. As the weeks have progressed and the regular service users attend he allows us time during this introductory period to give each other advice which has meant that now at meetings there is what i call an established culture of care. 

At the end of the sessions he recaps what has been learnt, allows us to ask any further questions. This allows everything to sink in so that each and everyone of us can leave in a positive mood. I would say that his sessions are infectious (in a good way) because he has allowed a positive, service user led culture.  

During my time at CGL he has helped me understand myself, and what i can do to overcome my difficulties in my recovery journey. There have been times when i was heading down the dark path, however Adrian has steered me in the right direction with guidance and support. For that, i am eternally grateful - Thank you.

In the world we live in nowadays it is important to give some positive feedback because if there are people wanting to seek help but are nervous, fearful of being judged, don't know what to do, Adrian will help you and guide you. 

Thank you Adrian, you have given me a positive experience of using this service. From the bottom of my heart, thank you! Words cannot describe how grateful i am for you getting me from where i was, to where i am now, to where i want to be in the future. 

CGL Wisbech, Adrian, my key worker i want you to know that you make a difference to people and have inspired me to help others in the future. 

:)