On 4^th August 2023 Sally and I met for the first time as Self advocacy group support worker. This was the planning stages of LINK self-advocacy group. We decided what the name would be, the aims, mission and looked at venues to hold the group.

On 4^th November 2023 LINK was born. We had about 4 members to start with, but now we have about 13 members.

In August 2024, I made the difficult decision to leave LINK. This group is like my second baby, as I planned it from the start with Sally, but I needed to make the right decision for my mental health.

On 9^th August 2024, we went to Rowheath park for our 500 mile challenge walk. They gave me a lovely send off, which I was not expecting and it meant a lot. Kirsty was Jen for the afternoon, we swapped ID badges, and she did a brilliant job.

I really miss LINK and seeing everyone on a Friday, but I am so proud of the group members. I remember for the AGM no one wanted to stand up and talk, but on the day they all stood at the front and we did it together. Since then, their confidence has grown and they’re all becoming more confident as self advocates.

Keep up all the good work and continue to grow and if you ever are struggling with mental health, please talk to someone.