When my mum became ill, my daughter witnessed a serious car accident, and my husband lost his job — it all became too much. My anxiety took over, and I reached a point where I just couldn’t function.
I contacted RCS, who told me about the In-Work Support Service. I was registered quickly and had my first counselling session within a week. In total, I received six face-to-face sessions with a local counsellor, as well as regular check-ins with my Client Support Coordinator, who was brilliant throughout.
At the time, I was off work and worried about my job. My Coordinator helped me prepare for absence meetings and guided me through my options for a phased return. She also referred me to Citizens Advice, who helped me understand my benefits entitlement. With my parents living with me and my pay reduced, that support made a real difference.
The service was invaluable — it took away so many of my worries and helped me access financial support I didn’t even know I was eligible for. The counselling and ongoing advice have made a huge difference to my confidence and my ability to cope.
I’m now back at work on a phased return and feeling much more positive about the future.