Kerry has been attending Genesis Life Projects for a number of years. She joined us for meals, courses and social activities, all of which have hugely supported her mental health. Kerry initially came to Genesis Trust because of mental ill-health but alongside that she struggles with alcohol addiction.

Genesis Life Projects became an important part of her social circle, which was good for her wellbeing. External courses like Grow For Life, which was offered to our clients, helped Kerry’s confidence and engagement with other activities. She said, ‘I loved Grow For Life, meeting new people in a nice setting. I used to have my own gardening business, so it is nice to help out. It’s very good for my mental health, very uplifting and fun.’

Kerry also began to volunteer at Genesis Life Projects. She helped with breakfasts and other activities we ran and supported the team and other clients. But the boundaries between being a client and a volunteer became difficult.

We suggested Kerry instead start a volunteering course run by another organisation. Our staff continued our tailored support with creative one-to-ones, whilst she attended the volunteering course. Staff member Matt Prescott met regularly with Kerry and together they engaged in a creative project. This regular time enabled Matt to discuss deeper issues with Kerry, such as her addiction and how she can best manage that.

After identifying that boredom was a trigger for her addiction, Matt began to suggest other activities offered around the city she could get involved in and encouraged her to attend. She’s attended a number of activities, during which she has made new friends and became more independent.

Kerry has now completed her volunteering course and together we are starting to talk about how she can volunteer with Genesis Life Projects again.

Kerry is just one of the many people we walk alongside at Genesis Life Projects. We are able to tailor our support to meet the needs of each person we interact with. This is largely thanks to the support we get from you. Thank you for empowering local people like Kerry to become independent and confident in their own abilities.