George

I’ve a Polish name but I was born in Staffordshire!

My sister-in-law found out about and referred me to MST five years back. I’m happy as a service user with this service and the group. I can’t wait to go to the meetings on a Friday morning. They’re quite social, we have a good laugh and discussion about a range of topics. I really enjoy it when people talk about where they’ve been on holiday and show their photos.

What are your hobbies?

I like photography and astronomy, parks and the countryside as well. I like when we go as a group to the movies on a Thursday, but I prefer the old movies. Vin Diesel is a great character in Riddick and the Fast and the Furious. He’s a clever bloke – he knows what he’s doing. Better than Arnold Schwarzenegger. These days people get bored with the old movies, they need a bit of adventure. Vin Diesel, with those characters, and especially with that voice of his, provides it.

What do you think about the support you receive?

Joan, my support worker, is a wonderful woman. She’s supported me because of my condition and it’s a good thing too.

I see her every Friday at the coffee morning. I get on well with some of the other people there, I go and I talk to them and it’s a good way to be. I do meet some of the people at other meetings and groups I go to, so that’s good – seeing people you know to talk to.

What’s for the future?

I hope to remain in good health and continue socialising. I force myself to go out everyday. Every Thursday, I go to the social club. Even if I don’t fancy the group, I try to make sure I go out for a walk. It helps, when I’m on my own, otherwise it can be a bit monotonous.

 

George receives mental health-related floating support in Derby.

By giving up some of their time to help us build on the good work we do, volunteers make a real difference to people’s lives.

 

Michael’s blog

Michael is a service user who decided to volunteer. He writes about his experiences in the forum and will answer your questions. Visit Michael’s blog