Sadly it was a battle with cancer which led Linda to volunteer at DRC, having previously worked in schools and the dry cleaning industry. After having a discussion with her Job Centre Plus advisor upon recovery, they suggested Linda may benefit from accessing our services.
After attending a drop in at her local library, and coming into contact with DRC colleagues, Linda soon became a regular face at our Kitts Green Centre. She challenged herself by attending many of the courses we run, learning new skills and taking herself out of her comfort zone.
Through regular attendance at the centre, staff soon got to know Linda very well, and saw a steady change in the slightly shy but always friendly woman who walked through the door. Looking at the way she would encourage and support those around her, DRC approached Linda and asked if she would like to be a mentor. Taking up the task she excelled in this role, and there are many people today, who will have had first-hand experience of the support Linda has provided.
Alongside mentoring, Linda also took on a role on our reception and running our Wednesday coffee morning. When asked what her plans are going forward, she simply states that she would like to “keep carrying on”, stating that hardship has taught her “that even when I’m feeling down I’ve got to pick myself up, and try my best to pick others up, because that’s what life is about”.