Putting my slippers on and getting back on my feet

Hi everyone, my name is Petal. I would like to say some few words about my progress of going back to work.

I was not well mentally. I was in hospital for about six months. Through that time, when I was in hospital, I was not putting on slippers on my feet, I refused to do it. One day, I came to Mosaic with one of the staff nurses from Lambeth hospital. That week was the first time I put the slippers on. It was then I realised that I was not well mentally. I pray a lot and that is what has given me hope to get well and continue with my life. Of course, with the help of the treatment. So, I thank God.

In 2021, I applied to Morley College to study Social Care level 1. I live in a supported accommodation, so I also have a lot of support from the staff there. I also got a laptop from the Digital Inclusion project at Mosaic, which makes my learning easier. I studied online, and I was awarded Adult Social Care Level 1 Certificate. I was extremely glad. This certificate gave me hope to continue with my studies. I then applied for Level 2 in Adult Social Care, which I am now studying.

I have just received my Mental Health Awareness Level 1 certificate. I was then advised to apply for a care job while studying. This is what I did and was offered a care job at Harmony Employment agency. I went through their social care training, and when I completed it, they offered me a job role as a care worker, while studying for my Level 2 certificate. My aim is to become a health care nurse. I love my job.

I hope my story will give you great inspiration to plan and study, so you can gain confidence to go back to work. I have started with some baby steps, so yes you can make It too! All you need is the first steps. Thank you for listening to my story.

To help us support more people like Petal donate here.