We caught up with Darren to talk about his journey working with our Individual Placement and Support (IPS) team.
He is an inspiring example of resilience, support and transformation. Darren openly shared his struggles with mental health and how it impacted his career and personal life, including experiencing homelessness and suicidal thoughts. However, his journey took a positive turn when he was referred to the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) team, which provided him with crucial support in multiple areas.
“I had my dream career taken away from me at a young age. I also lost my mum, and this is when I began suffering with my mental health. The work I have done since then has also impacted my mental health - this being industrial and factory work, the type of environments where there is not much awareness around mental health or support. I began taking a lot of time off work. I felt like I couldn’t go on.”
“I was having a very difficult time at work and was losing my job. This was really getting me down. Therefore, I was referred to IPS. I was living in my car. I was homeless, as I was not going to work due to issues with my mental health. This led to financial struggles. I was having suicidal thoughts. I was not in a good place when I met Charlene (Navigo Employment Specialist).
“I received help with my mental health from Navigo. They identified the root cause and referred me to IPS. I met Charlene and we spent a lot of time discussing the issues I was having, identifying my barriers around employment.”
Through IPS, Darren worked closely with Charlene, who helped him return to work by creating a wellbeing action plan and offering regular in-work support. Together, they identified Darren’s ideal career path, built his confidence, and encouraged him to take part in new experiences.
“We completed a vocational profile. Charlene spoke with my employer and made it possible for me to return to work. She put a wellbeing action plan in place and provided weekly in-work support sessions. She helped me identify my ideal career path through the work that she did. She encouraged me to talk at Navigo’s AGM. I enjoyed this so much that I wanted to do more. It built my confidence.
“Charlene introduced me to staff at Nurtrio. It was really helpful and encouraged me to apply for a job with them. I signed up to do a charity walk with them. I just wanted to be part of something and give back. This made me keener than ever to be a part of Nurtrio. Charlene helped me prepare for my interview. We have done a lot of skills work to prepare me for the role. I can’t wait.
“My dreams have come true. Charlene also worked as a multi-disciplinary team with Ben from Humbercare. Ben helped find me accommodation and worked closely with Charlene. I’d like to say thank you to Ben and Humbercare.
“It helped me dream again. If it wasn’t for Navigo and IPS, I don’t think I would be here.”
Darren’s transformation included learning vital coping strategies, building resilience, and gaining confidence in his abilities.
“I have improved social and communication skills and found a new strength. I’ve made friends! I thought my dreams were over but thanks to Navigo, I have a new dream and feel like I am living again. This hasn’t been an easy journey. There have been challenges on the way but Navigo have been there throughout.
“I am now a support worker for Nurtrio. I’m looking forward to helping people. I want to be able to give back after the support I received. Nurtrio have been great and supported me with each step. Being part of their team means the world to me.”
“I would strongly advise getting help from Navigo and IPS. I feel like they have made my dreams possible. If you’re struggling, please reach out. Navigo are so much more than a mental health service. I will continue to work with them as I continue on my journey of recovery.”
Darren’s story highlights the powerful impact of mental health services like IPS have in helping individuals overcome their challenges and rediscover hope for the future.
The IPS service is open to service users currently receiving care from Navigo. Ask your care co-ordinator or keyworker if IPS would be a suitable service for your needs. If it is, they can refer you to the team.
