Initially I was unsure of how Workable (NI) could help and support me in my new role as a Peer Support Worker. I had been previously employed in the private sector in the Construction industry and didn’t feel I needed to utilise the service. However I soon discovered that even my own lived experience of mental health diagnosis was not support enough to prepare me for the emotional side of the job. Workable (NI) and my Employment Support Officers (ESO) met with me often to help encourage and provide that much needed support, which proved invaluable from the outset.
Knowing that I had someone to turn to for Help and Support helped me build the confidence I needed for the role to enable others with Mental Health difficulties go on to improve their quality of life and face the future with confidence. The additional counselling which I received via a recommendation from my ESO and funded by Workable (NI) has been really beneficial and given me a chance to voice my fears and help improve my abilities not just professionally but personally as well.
Moving forward it has been wonderful working with my new ESO and I feel so blessed to have had such a supportive caring and professional person helping me to establish my role and have the confidence to continue playing my part in Mental Health Recovery.
Michala Cameron
(Peer Support Worker Ballymena CMHT)