Resident Story
Surviving to thriving
Before moving to Orchards, I was in survival mode. This is no way of living, as the stress is constant - where to sleep, how to get money. I was rushing all the time, just trying to survive.
I moved to Orchards Housing a year ago. The start was not easy. It was like being in the space in between destroying my past and building my future. At times I wanted to quit, to give up, uncertain of what I was meant to do and be. It’s scary, but I want to encourage other women to go through this. It’s normal when you’re going through such a big transition.
A lot of things helped me through this time, including weekly counselling, having a befriender, time with my support worker and being part of a support group. I feel like there has been a circle of support around me with Orchards and other organisations. The spiritual side has helped me a lot. I’ve done an Alpha course and a bereavement course and joined a church. God has helped me to make the decision to start from scratch and rebuild my life. I’m proud that I made this decision and did what was right for me.
Partner - Orchards UK