Shaw Trust Live Well Kent have helped to transform the lives of Swale residents with mental health through offering employability courses, networking with local businesses and providing tailored one-to-one support plans to suit the needs of the individual. Shaw Trust raises awareness of the service and equality for their clients through community inclusion and providing a person-centred approach.
Peter initially registered with Shaw Trust to receive support around career planning and to find a suitable job following an injury he encountered. The injury resulted in Peter having prolapsed discs and prolonged pain which require the use of walking aids and some days can progress where he is physically unable to get out of bed.
Previous to the accident Peter had worked as a Warehouse Operative and liked to keep busy, however his injury meant Peter had to leave work as he couldn’t keep up with the physical demands the job entailed.
Peter informed staff at Live Well Kent that he was struggling with his mental health and experiencing suicidal thoughts. Peter expressed feelings of hopelessness and guilt as he believed he had become a burden to his wife financially.
Peter really wanted to work and to find a job which was suitable and an employer who could be understanding around his health condition. This was something Peter never imagined possible. By being open-minded to new opportunities within a new sector he was able to gain the skills to help him progress and find paid work.