Before I started attending Creative Threads, I was completely isolated due to severe anxiety and agoraphobia. Just opening the door would send a chill down my spine; I could not pass the doorstep.

The group has truly been a lifeline for me. It stopped me feeling and being isolated, and if I don’t come here, I don’t come out.

As my confidence grew, I took a massive step and started volunteering to help lead a new weekly session. This has been life-changing. I find it so much easier to talk to people, and I have made loads of friends who I even visit outside the group.

My confidence has improved so much in this safe space. I feel more like my old self—what my life was like before. Now, I even go to another craft group and was able to help fundraise at my granddaughter’s school!

I hope to continue volunteering and building on my confidence and trying new things. Thank you so much.