Will's Story

Will, born in Cardiff, was confined to his flat, alone during the pandemic, was furloughed from his job, and was struggling with his mental health. He spent weeks looking for some sort of local support but was unsuccessful.

“At the beginning of lockdown, I wasn't able to socialise or get the treatment that I needed for my PTSD. This led to a feeling of loneliness and made me feel like I was on my own.”

Will decided to try and find some support through his boyhood football club and came across our Positive Pathways Veterans Project when searching online. He started logging on and attending our weekly digital catchups, making new friends, sharing his experiences in a safe environment, and tackling his social isolation issues.

“Since being with the group I’m able to talk to like-minded people at a pace that suits me. I've found a healthy place within the group to try and help process past experiences from within the Armed Forces.

“It's also a huge help to listen to others speak about themselves and any problems they have and realise that I’m not alone in feeling that way – I was lonely and isolated, this project kept me going!”

By providing Will with a social circle to build new relationships and express himself, he has been able to work closely with our staff to maintain a positive mentality and build on the progress he’s already made.

“Mike has been great since I've known him, and he has made myself and the rest of the group feel completely at ease whenever we get involved in the sessions.”

Since the easing of restrictions, Will has also had the opportunity to travel back to Cardiff, attend our sessions in person, and make the most of the support available to him and other Veterans across Cardiff and the surrounding areas.

Do you know someone who could benefit from our support? Click here to find out more.