Emz first came to St Mungo’s through our Assertive Contact and Engagement (ACE) service in Bristol. Six years later, she reflects on how the support she‘s received has helped her understand herself, become drug-free and take steps towards a future she once couldn’t imagine.
Emz first came to St Mungo’s through our Assertive Contact and Engagement (ACE) service in Bristol. Six years later, she reflects on how the support she‘s received has helped her understand herself, become drug-free and take steps towards a future she once couldn’t imagine.
“Going back, I’d been in touch with some other drug and alcohol support services and they told me about St Mungo’s ACE service.
I was living with a drug addiction and needed help coping with everyday life. Things began to change when I came to a St Mungo’s wellbeing group.
We’d check in with each other at the beginning, which I really liked. We got to know each other, and everyone would be supportive. If you had a problem, it’s a safe space to talk about it.
It was through the group that St Mungo’s support workers noticed something that would eventually help me make sense of things I’d been through.
More recently, St Mungo’s introduced me to volunteering and employment opportunities. Now that I can see myself working, I had a think about it and can see so much more clearly.
So, I started a volunteering role with Age UK, as a befriender to elderly people on the phone and I’ll gradually lead up to doing home visits. Steph from St Mungo’s came along with me to the interviews, which was a big support having her there.
Volunteering has opened up possibilities that once felt out of reach. Even two years ago I’d never imagined myself thinking I’m capable of working and being a member of society.
But I’m happy doing this now and can still get anxious before the calls, but I’m quite proud of myself and the progress I’m making.
My 15-year-old rescue dog, Cuba, has been by my side since he was 10 months old. He’s the reason I moved back to Bristol, which I consider as home. I’d not lived here since I was 12 years old, when my dad passed away and I went into foster care. But having Cuba with me gave me the confidence to return. It didn’t matter if I didn’t know anyone, because I had him – he’s getting me up and out every day. I found a sense of belonging that I didn’t even realise was missing.
Without him and the support I’ve received, I certainly wouldn’t be the person I am now. I’d still be taking drugs, wouldn’t have my motorbike licence or even any savings.
I remember thinking, ‘if I move back, maybe I can be clean off drugs this time in 10 years.’ I didn’t think it would be possible, but it was and St Mungo’s has been a big part of the changes in my life for the past six years.”
