Lindsey

Lindsey has a hectic life as a single parent looking after her daughter with complex needs. On top she has to manage her own mental wellbeing and physical health.

Now Lindsey is where she had never expected to be; her drive to improve outcomes for others is inspirational. We talked to Lindsey about connecting with Bridge Northumberland and the purpose driving her new direction.

How did you first come to Bridge?

“My son had done the programme with Bridge and the outcome was really positive for him. I was a full-time carer, I had very limited time for myself but I thought, ‘if Bridge helped him, what could I get out of it?’ So I picked up the phone.”

What were you hoping for?

“I wanted Bridge to help me build my confidence. I was looking to get into more training courses and get further qualifications. I definitely had issues at school but I just sat quietly so I didn’t get a lot of attention and my autism and ADHD was never identified. So I didn’t learn to cope and it made me constantly ill. The first thing I wanted was to gain some confidence.”

Is that what made bridge different?

“Yes. The one-to-one support I received and my Bridge worker, Angela, she went above and beyond for me. Nothing but helpful and understanding 100% to help me get started on training and volunteering, bringing out my interest in the law and how it works.

“Bridge started me in counselling and coaching sessions, helping build my self-esteem and start to overcome barriers. It wasn’t a ‘one size fits all approach. Bridge looked at me as an individual.”

Where are you now?

“I’ve found my voice. Working with Bridge led me to an understanding behaviour course and to voluntary work with Citizens’ Advice, helping me develop the skills and knowledge to take me toward self-employment. Now I’m giving motivational talks on my journey with autism and speaking to parents and professionals to help them understand its impact.”

What’s next for Lindsey?

“Through work with the Laurel Trust, I have teamed up with a group of six parents and we are forming a support group, Family Tree, for families of children with additional needs. I’m part way through writing a book and there’s my website planned. It has changed my life now I want to improve outcomes for children. I want to make a difference and it started with one phone call.”

Angela Evans her Bridge Worker was full of praise for Lindsey:
“Lindsey was a pleasure to work with, she required support to point her in the right direction and the rest came naturally to her as her confidence grew.  She is very motivated to help others and with gaining additional knowledge to enable her to educate people in a range of disabilities and the impact on their lives she will do well in her chosen career.”

Lindsey said of her journey:
“The opportunities they have given me – I can’t thank them enough for all they have done and their help and support. I would highly recommend Bridge.”