My name is Catherine.

I’ve been going to the YAC group for nearly two years. Before I attended I was feeling scared and a bit anxious about being in a group. I have been to other groups before and have not got much out of them – I felt like I didn’t fit in.  I was a bit worried as I didn’t know what to expect from the Carers Leeds YAC group.

I got referred to Carers Leeds by my college tutor and I met up and got support one to one from Hazell. She put my mind at ease so I went to the group.  I didn’t know what to expect.  We went to tick tock unlock and I really enjoyed it, even though I didn’t know many people. It was a nice atmosphere and everyone seemed really lovely and friendly.  I felt calm and It made me want to attend more groups.  At the group I feel like I fit in and that you don’t have to be fake.  You can be yourself-nobody judges you. I also feel safe at the YAC group. I’ve been to ITV studios, Yorkshire sculpture park and Go ape.  I also really liked the drumming session and the first aid course.

The Carers Leeds staff really care about us and support us.  They help us to get the most out of the group and we choose all the activities.  The group supports you and gets you out of your caring role.  You meet new friends, socialise, gain more confidence and independence.  I also enjoyed seeing Grace from the health team and going to ministry of food. Grace really helped me with my eating habits.  Adam, Hazell and Jo are lovely.  They don’t judge us and they are not patronising-they listen to us and support us.