“I felt like I had finally found what I’d been searching for” – Stacy’s volunteer story

My name is Stacy, and I’m a co-facilitator and wellbeing volunteer at Barnsley Recovery College. I began my volunteering journey with the Trust in 2022. I’ve participated in various volunteering activities with charity shops, and as a result I was able to complete my NVQ in customer services. A friend suggested I pursue it, and I believe it’s crucial to engage with others and communicate – especially since we often lack that connection nowadays.

When I experienced my breakdown, my now ex-partner advised me to reach out to others. He encouraged me to connect with people who share my feelings. The first thing I did was check out the Barnsley Recovery College website. I took a deep breath, and signed up for my initial course. Upon arrival, I met a team member before the session began. This was truly wonderful because they were very much like me. They shared, “I’ve been on my own mental health journey.” That resonated with me – I could see myself in them, and they had been through a similar experience. My breakdown nearly took my life, and I thought, “If they have succeeded, I can give it a try too.” even though I couldn’t see the wood for the trees back then. I was genuinely terrified!

When I found Barnsley Recovery College I completed my first course with Georgina. I learnt that it’s perfectly fine to acknowledge my own needs and take care of them as well. It’s not just others who have rights; I have them too.

After a few more courses, I discovered the WRAP course. This was a 12-week programme where we explored various topics, including creating plans for when we experience a breakdown and strategies to implement when we’re not feeling okay. It enabled me to identify triggers and develop a personal “wellness toolbox.” I would think, “Oh my God, this really works!” This was a transformative experience for me. I felt like I had finally found what I had been searching for.

Georgina provided immense support during that time; I truly couldn’t have done it without her. Not just at the college, but in life overall. Eventually, when someone suggested that I could volunteer and assist with the courses, she guided me through the application process, and soon enough, the moment arrived for me to begin my volunteering journey.

The functional skills course at the Recovery College was truly enjoyable because it allowed me to create my own course, and I found the process surprisingly easy. The backstory is that a friend of mine, who was on a tight budget, gifted me a jar filled with heartwarming quotes. It genuinely helped me learn to communicate with myself, appreciate myself, and cultivate self-compassion. At that moment, I realised that the thoughts contained in that jar had a profound impact on me. I understood that when I encouraged others during my course to draw from that jar, it would also bring about change for them. I firmly believe that small gestures like this can lead to significant transformations; small steps pave the way for larger ones. So, I conducted my ‘jar’ course, and I absolutely loved it.

I felt incredibly positive and had a wonderful time co-facilitating courses. Following that, I participated in several physical health and wellbeing courses, including ‘Couch to 5K.’ This experience helped me relax. I even completed a 10km run afterwards.

I believe that becoming a volunteer course co-facilitator at Barnsley Recovery College is all about connecting with others and realising that you’re not alone. There are numerous resources that can support you. I feel that by sharing my story, I can help others.

The team at Barnsley Recovery College is outstanding. They provide me with unwavering support. The people around you encourage you to act, and they do this in such a kind and supportive manner. I would absolutely recommend volunteering with Barnsley Recovery College.