I became familiar with Access to Industry during their weekly sessions at the Lothians and Edinburgh Abstinence Project (LEAP) treatment centre. At the time I lacked confidence and self-esteem. I didn’t believe in myself, but was hiding it under a mask of fake confidence. I was anxious in group settings and was making up for it with bravado.

To begin with I worked with Access to Industry's Encompass service in Edinburgh, and then subsequently their Mid and East Lothian Recovery Service. During this time I attended or completed courses in: Mindfulness; Peer Mentoring; Food Hygiene; Awareness of Mental Health First Aid; Recovery Volunteer Training; and Adult Returners at Edinburgh College.

My caseworker never told me what to do or pushed me in any direction. I was presented with options and given encouragement, which allowed me to achieve significantly more than I thought possible. I enjoyed the organic flow of the support and learning activities that led me to where I am now. I particularly appreciated the Recovery Volunteer Training, which provided me with knowledge useful both in my future professional plans and my personal life.

Since engaging with Access to Industry I have grown in confidence and sense of self-worth. I now thrive in group settings without having to pretend. I have learned new skills and become ready to reconnect with education.

In terms of my hopes and plans for the future, I applied for the HNC Working with Communities at Edinburgh College and started the course in August. My long-term goal is to be working with children and families and be able to use my life experiences to help others.