I've always had a passion for children and caring for others - so much so that I started work as a nursery assistant in 2019 and I was loving it. But then the pandemic happened and I sadly lost that job last year. I've been out of work since.
On top of all that, I was in the middle of fleeing from an abusive relationship. It was a lot for me to handle all at once - being a single mum, leaving a violent ex and dealing with the police. I often felt very alone and without much hope of things getting better. In the end I managed to get my son and I into a refuge. After that we were moved into temporary accommodation and are still here waiting to be placed somewhere more permanent.
I really believe that time is a great healer and I’m slowly starting to feel more like myself. But I do still have days where I struggle and the doubts creep in. I just want to provide for my son and give him the small things all kids want, like going out to an activity or getting new clothes.
It’s a bit mental to think about my first paycheque but I’d love to use it to buy some wholesome food as we can only afford reduced items at the moment. Even though my dream would be to work with children, I'm open to most jobs. In the future I’d like to go back to school and study to become a lecturer, or maybe explore fashion and textiles. I’ve still not fully decided, but at least I can now start living life on my own terms!