Climbing Out of the Well
Claire is a single mother of two young daughters. After experiencing traumatic events affecting her and her family, she found herself navigating life as a lone parent, unemployed, and struggling with post-traumatic stress
and fragile mental health.
*Claire's Story
*name has been changed to maintain privacy
Living in “survival mode,” she devoted all her limited energy to staying strong for her children. After being out of work for more than three years, her job centre work coach suggested the Rippleacts programme to her.
“I was clawing myself up from the pits of hell, that’s how I would describe my starting situation. I'd lost all my confidence; I didn't know who I was anymore. I spent the last three years just surviving, looking after the kids, and I hadn't given my own well-being any thought. I was just lost.”
Initially, Claire was a quiet participant in the coaching group, staying in the background and mostly listening to others share their experiences. Gradually, she began to connect with what she heard and started opening up about her own story and emotions, allowing herself to be vulnerable. The group's mutual trust and compassion created a safe space that enabled her to come to terms with past events and let go of feelings of guilt and shame. By applying the cognitive-behavioural tools in her everyday life, Claire became more attuned to shifts in her mood and intrusive thought patterns, which helped her shift her perspective and build emotional resilience.
“I got a lot out of it, a lot more confidence now, and a lot more self-awareness. I know how to cope with things better. And when you hear whatever everyone else is going through as well, it helps put things in perspective and, you know, you're not alone.”
Following on from the coaching, Claire took part in a “Ripple” work experience project. She enjoyed the painting and decorating work, a passion and talent she had forgotten about. This helped her to further develop her self-confidence, feel empowered and build a positive routine in her week. She also found a beautiful and lasting friendship in the project. A few weeks after completing her work experience, she found paid part time work for a local maintenance company. And her advice for future participants who are unsure about joining this programme?
“I've gone from a place of feeling like being swallowed up by the earth. With no real ability to get out, to be able to dig yourself out. Doing the Rippleacts programme was like someone throwing you a rope when you're stuck in a well. You still must put the work in to get out. But there's someone there helping you.”
“Without Rippleacts, I wouldn't have a job, which I enjoy. I would not have a colourful skirt and trainers on today. Everything would be different. I'd be spending every day at home, not going out, not seeing friends, not socialising.”
“Go for it with an open mind! You won't lose anything from giving it a go.
You’ve got nothing to lose and everything to gain.”
What would Claire say to someone unsure about joining a program like this?
