When I was 14, I was knocked over by a hit and run driver. I was in hospital for about a month. I had to relearn how to walk, talk, write – everything. The professionals said it was likely never be able to work. I felt demotivated and had very low confidence.

I first came into contact with Headway when I was around 18 years old. Noreen, who used to work at Headway came to see me at home. She was running a short course about health and wellbeing and I was invited to attend. I then started attending Headway on Mondays and Thursdays. I was really shy and nervous but over the ten years I have been attending, my confidence has really grown.

The benefit of Headway for me is that I have learnt a lot, met lots of new people and it has been something to look forward to in the week.

Rina, who leads the cooking sessions has been especially helpful to me. She has encouraged me through cooking, baking and decorating – for example my marzipan and icing Christmas cake toppers. Cooking has really boosted my confidence and self-belief. Whenever I doubt my abilities, Rina’s words – ‘we’ve got this!’ always pull me though.

I am leaving Headway now because I am starting an apprenticeship in a nursery with the aim to further my education as well as my confidence. I am really excited and proud of myself for reaching this amazing milestone – as are all the staff and my friends at Headway.

If I could speak to my younger self I would say – “don’t give up, you’ve got this!”