Nikki was isolated and bored at home and so decided to try looking for learning opportunities which would give her new skills eventually to enable her to return to work. She lacked direction, had no skills base to build on, and was uncertain as to what opportunities were open for her, but showed enthusiasm for the new possibilities suggested by her Development Worker and tutors.

 

In the last few years Nikki had suffered numerous set-backs including bereavement and being left by her partner. This lead to her developing a drink problem and subsequently a few incidents in which  the police were involved.

 

Nikki completed a Personal Development Course which gave her a confidence boost and set down a foundation to enable her to set herself achievable goals. Her Development Worker encouraged her to move forward in a positive way and to undertake courses in Complementary Therapies. She has undertaken OCN qualifications in Indian Head Massage and Reiki.

 

Nikki considers that the project has definitely affected her life in every way including a knock on effect with her children as they now see a happier mum who has a new focus with achievable goals for a brighter future. She recognises that her involvement with the programme of courses has helped both boost her confidence and assist her recovery.

 

She aims to train as an adult tutor and has enrolled on the initial level course, PTTLS at NESCOT College in Ewell. Nikki aims to come off benefits completely once she is qualified as a teacher of adults in Complementary Therapies. She will continue to receive support from her Surrey Care Trust Development Worker and will liaise with Lucis College concerning mentoring for her new specialist skills.