I have attended AMH New Horizons Foyle for nearly two years now.
I was so nervous when I started because I didn’t know anyone but after a few weeks that soon changed, I was introduced to everyone and soon realised that we were all in the one boat with our mental health which made me feel more comfortable. Since I have been here I have gained qualifications in Stress Management, Money Management, Photography, Woodwork, Cycling and Confidence Building. Achieving these has made me feel really good about myself, helped to build my confidence and self-esteem, but more importantly I feel I can now tackle most jobs around the house which in the long run saves me some money!
What I especially love about AMH New Horizons Foyle is the Theme days with special lunches and also the events and fun days which happen within and outside the Service, the next one being a day trip to the Balmoral Show which I am really looking forward to.
As my confidence grew I spoke with the Employment Officer, Valerie to discuss options regarding doing some voluntary work, she made me feel at ease and I felt comfortable to discuss areas of voluntary work available as she assured me of her full support in moving into volunteering.
Since then I have started a placement at Altnagelvin Hospital as a Meet & Greet person where I assist patients to complete computer check in for the Out Patients Clinics, I enjoy this very much as I get to see different faces and it’s a good feeling knowing that I am helping others. This is something that I never thought I could achieve and I feel that this will be an advantage in the near future if I’m looking for a job!
I am also a member of the Client Local Advisory Group (CLAG). This enables us as a group to take the Clients’ ideas forward to improve the Service whilst also insuring that Clients are aware that we are available for support and guidance when required.
I have a wee niece with Autism who is very close to my heart, I would love to learn more about ways of helping her. I had always thought that I would like to be involved with helping and supporting young people with disabilities so with the help of the Employment Officer, Valerie, I now have an interview for another possible placement at Little Orchid’s Nursery which is for children with learning disabilities.
I have to say I could never have achieved any of this had I not come to Foyle AMH New Horizons Foyle. The support and guidance I have received from all the staff and clients at New Horizons is second to none and brought me a long way forward from where I was at. My time on the programme will soon come to an end, at which I feel very saddened as I have met so many good people and found great friends. I highly recommend the Service to everyone who needs the help, and take the challenge of moving forward with your life.
Elaine Mooney
