"I have been a part of Families In Mind since September 2021. I’ve recently graduated from the University of Chichester with a degree in Primary Teaching with SEND.
My journey to university wasn’t conventional. I was a single parent, in the depths of post-natal depression, lost and unsure of what the future held for me and my daughter.
In 2023 I was faced with the choice between full-time employment in a job that I hated, or starting again and jumping into a full-time degree with a two-year-old. I chose the latter.
My decision was heavily supported by those around me, and even more so by those at Families in Mind Littlehampton.
After three years, five placements, numerous assignments, and one (first-class) dissertation, I came away with a degree in a field that I am passionate about.
But the degree isn’t the only thing that I’m proud of. Over the last five years, I have been supported, understood and listened to by people that I was introduced to at my lowest point. I’ve built friendships that I know will last a lifetime through Families in Mind.
When the journey felt too long and too hard, I was pushed on and guided by the incredible friends that I have met through this service. My education has come to an end (for now) and so has my time with Families in Mind, so I want to take the opportunity to thank those who have been by my side, and have supported me and my daughter over the last five years.
Most importantly, I must thank Sue Steele, our peer support worker. She has been a shining light at Families in Mind for many people, me included. Sue has seen me go from an anxious, sad 21-year-old - drowning in the depths of single motherhood - to the happy graduate that I am now."
West Sussex Mind's Families in Mind project aims to improve the mental health and wellbeing of parents of young children. We offer various types of support, including informal play and chat groups, community meet-ups and 'enjoy your baby' courses.