Following the accident, Andy’s life dramatically changed. His wife left him, he was unable to work, and where once he’d been very fit, his injuries meant even walking was a struggle.
However, Andy’s life really took a turn for the worse during the COVID-19 pandemic. Tragically, over a short time frame, he suffered eight bereavements, three of them close family members (his dad, mum and cousin). His grief, coupled with his CPSTD and the physical effects of a stroke, which caused a fall, meant Andy didn’t leave the house. He was isolated, lonely and depressed.
Reflecting on that time, Andy says, “I didn’t see anybody apart from the postman going by. It was worse than being in prison.”
I was just in the house and couldn’t cope anymore.”
In desperation, Andy reached out to Seachange and began the journey that would change his life.
Andy says, “I spoke to someone who was very prepared to listen to what I was telling them and who sat and thought about it. They rang me up and asked if I would like to do Nature Buddies.”
Nature Buddies was a three-month pilot initiative that involved guided nature walks.
Andy was paired up with a volunteer, John, who took him out on a nature walk each week. At first, Andy found the walking difficult, but with the aid of a stick and John’s support, he gradually grew in confidence. They quickly became friends, and even though the Nature Buddies programme has now finished, they still walk together every Tuesday. Andy finds this time outdoors and learning about nature very therapeutic.
In addition to the walking, Andy now comes to Seachange every week to have lunch and play scrabble with two others. Once strangers brought together by the Seachange team, they’re now firm friends and regularly meet outside of Seachange.
When asked what Seachange had done for him, Andy said:
“Seachange took someone who was isolated and feeling lonely and gave them a place to feel safe. A place where they could expose themselves very gradually and safely under supervision to the world again.”
When you feel completely alone and that there’s nothing to look forward to, there’s no hope, or you’re feeling very depressed, Seachange can provide avenues for you to feel good about yourself.
This place is an oasis in the world. I see it changing people’s lives.”
We want to help more people like Andy, but we can't do it alone. Please click here to set up a regular donation and help us combat loneliness in our community.
“These are amazing facilities. I feel I can offer my clients a better service in Seachange than anywhere else.”