Life has been better recently, now that I’ve moved cities. My ex-husband was abusive so I had to leave and am now staying in a women’s refuge. I’m feeling good though since coming here, but things are still stressful and sometimes it's hard to focus on my studies and applying for jobs, especially with my current financial circumstances. I don’t have any friends or family here which makes it difficult; the other women in the refuge are lovely but they all have young kids and are really busy, so often I feel quite alone. I try to keep busy with my studies, doing online short courses, reading books, and sometimes going to the library. I’ve also been exploring my creative side by doing crafting and painting which is very mindful and makes me feel better. I also did a short mindfulness course which has helped me a lot during what has probably been the most difficult period of my life.
I’ve always been motivated to complete my studies and find a job, but I’m now on benefits for the first time in life which I would really like to change. I’m studying to be an accountant but currently don’t have the funds to complete my diploma, so that’s what I’m working towards at the moment.
In the meantime it would be good to have experience in an office environment, improve communication skills and customer service. I’m confident at using software like excel and have good IT skills, plus I love to work with and be around people – connecting with other people is what makes me happy!
My dream for the future is to have an effect in the social community; I love volunteering and want to be able to give to charities, maybe work for a small charity too. I want to be able to move out of the refuge, get my own place and be financially independent. I’d like to expand my social network too, eventually have a strong group of friends in my new area, and hopefully be a chartered accountant!
It’s nice to feel that there are others who care about you, and who want to help other people, especially because I also want to help others once I am able to.