Paula says, "My health wasn't great, and a friend mentioned maybe I should volunteer. I found Seachange and emailed Kate, the Volunteer Coordinator, late one night."
Kate invited Paula into Seachange for an initial chat. They went to a quiet room to explore what Seachange and Paula could offer each other.
"Kate made me feel very welcome and safe. I didn't know what I'd bring, but I wanted to give it a try and do better for me."
Paula started helping at one of Seachange's weekly support groups, and the impact was transformational. Assisting others took Paula's mind off her intrusive thoughts and acted as a kind of therapy.
"I didn't think about myself. I felt so supported and made some lovely friends."
The improvement in her mental health and the confidence she found through volunteering and her new friendships gave Paula the courage to undergo bariatric surgery – a recommended operation to assist with weight loss and alleviate associated health issues. She says, "Volunteering at Seachange gave me the boost to think about my health."
A year on from surgery, Paula has lost nine stones, is in remission with her diabetes and is no longer on medication. She's also become a kickboxing examiner, having had to give up teaching it when her weight made it too difficult.
Reflecting on what Seachange means to her, Paula says:
"Everyone has been absolutely amazing and supportive of me. I just love it here."
“These are amazing facilities. I feel I can offer my clients a better service in Seachange than anywhere else.”