Case Study: Vicky’s Story
From the get go, Vicky was dedicated to doing better for herself and her children. With a mirade of health issues including COPD and Depression, it was going to be a long term battle but she was ready for it. Vicky knew her smoking habit was worsening her COPD so quit without seeking help elsewhere. And with help from Change Grow Live and our YMCA support workers, she gradually reduced her daily methadone pick ups from the pharmacy to weekly pickups, showing just how far she had come with her addiction.
Vicky put her depression and low self esteem down to the appearance of her teeth which had bore the brunt of her drug usage. Vicky refused to smile for fear of peoples opinions of her teeth and what assumptions they would make. Through the support of YMCA, she found a local dentist who supported vulnerable residents and could fund the treatment she required. After multiple dentists visits, Vicky is now well on her way to a smile she can be proud of.
Vicky has made excellent progress with the support of YMCA and she hopes to soon move on to a 2 bed property with her children and begin a college course to become a support worker herself.
*At Vicky’s request, we have used an actor in the photograph.
Read more of our case studies:
Case Study: Abi’s Story
Abi’s first few months with YMCA were turbulent to say the least. With anger problems and an alcohol addiction, there was a lot for our support workers to work through with her. Abi engaged with all sessions, putting in the time and effort to tackle her addiction and...
Case Study: Rosie’s Story
Case Study: Rosie's StoryWhen Rosie first came to YMCA, she engaged well with our support workers however after quickly becoming involved with a young man, and moving out of our care to live with him, she self-referred back to us a couple of months later after the...
Finding Their Forever Home: Transforming Lives Through Accessible Housing
This year, we partnered with Northumberland County Council to find a suitable home for three long-term residents with learning difficulties. These individuals, who have shared their lives for over 30 years, faced a growing challenge - their current residence, with its...
Hayden’s Journey to Independence
Hayden’s journey is a testament to the power of believing and the transformative impact of YMCA North Tyneside. His path to independence was not straightforward. After a swift shift in his home life, he found himself in need of a new living situation. It was his...
Beyond Supported Living: A Journey to Self-Sufficiency
Since her time at the YMCA, Sarah* has made a really big impact on the building and the staff at the YMCA. Sarah is always willing to help out and get involved with every activity that is on. When Sarah first moved in she was anxious and worried and suffered from...