Brenda's Journey
Brenda’s life took a dramatic turn in January 2022 when she suffered a heart attack, followed by a severe bout of COVID-19. These health crises left her debilitated and depressed.Â
"I was so low I was suicidal", Brenda recalls, "I went into a deep depression. I didn’t bother washing and dressing. Carers had to come in and help me as I was so far down".Â
Brenda’s recovery began when her carer urged her to visit a doctor, who then referred her to a social prescriber. Social Prescribing Link Worker, Janet visited Brenda in May 2022.
"Janet came to visit me. She listened to what I would like to do and offered to take me out to a Talkin’ Table," Brenda says.
At that point, Brenda’s life was bleak, and she felt utterly hopeless.
Janet found her niche with Social Prescribing
Social Prescribing Link Worker, Janet has dedicated the past three years to improving lives at Chorley Council. Janet, who previously worked in housing and social work, has found her niche in social prescribing.
Janet said: "What I like most about my job is being able to help and support those I work with. It’s gratifying to know we are making a big difference in people’s lives.”
Janet has supported many community groups and initiatives through her social prescribing work, including Talkin’ Tables, a project led by Marjorie Haywood. This initiative aims to combat social isolation by providing safe spaces for community members to connect.
"Chorley Council has always had a brilliant working relationship with Marjorie. Social Prescribing is all about connecting people into the community, and that’s exactly what Talkin’ Tables does," Janet explains.
The First Steps
Brenda was initially apprehensive about attending Talkin’ Tables.
"I didn’t want to go. I was too nervous, but I knew I had to go because I had been inside for so long," she said. Â
Janet provided crucial support by accompanying Brenda to her first session, along with another lady in a similar situation.
"I couldn’t have gone in without Janet. I was too far gone and wasn’t sure about the people. But after a few visits, I knew they genuinely wanted to be friends with me," Brenda said.
Transformation through connection
Talkin’ Tables became a lifeline for Brenda, who said: "Talkin’ Tables has brought me back to life. Without Talkin’ Tables, I wouldn’t be here now.”
The initiative helped Brenda form genuine friendships, and she now looks forward to social gatherings and has even planned trips with her new friends.
"My whole life has changed. I am living again. I’ve got friends. Janet came for me and stayed with me on the first two visits. Then she said I had to go on my own. I was nervous but had made some good friends.”
Brenda’s transformation is evident.
Brenda’s sons are overjoyed to see their mother thriving again, relieved that she has found a supportive community.
The broader impact
Janet says integrating initiatives like Talkin’ Tables into her work is crucial, benefitting countless residents each month. She said: “Without Talkin’ Tables, our team of Social Prescribers would be at a great loss. We tell hundreds of residents about them every month,”
Brenda, now a strong advocate for social prescribing, says, "I have already recommended Janet to several friends. She changed my life by taking me to Talkin’ Tables. She’s like a friend. My two sons are so happy that their mum is back to the way she used to be."
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Talkin' Tables' mission is to combat loneliness by bringing people together in safe and inclusive spaces.Â
If you are struggling with your mental health and need support, talk to your GP to find out what support the NHS can provide.
You can also find advice, information and links to support at Every Mind Matters - NHS (www.nhs.uk) Â
And you can find a wide range of groups and services that support mental health in your area here:Â Mental Health Support Network provided by Chasing the Stigma | Hub of hope
