Susie has been coming to our charity’s Fitzalan Howard Centre, which provides day and respite services for adults with disabilities, for just over two years. She was kind enough to write a piece about how our charity and Fitzalan support her.

Guild Care and its Fitzalan day centre have been a lifeline to me. 

Before coming to Fitzalan, I was feeling low and unmotivated. I needed to challenge myself but didn’t know how.

I then found Fitzalan. I have been coming on and off for two years due to Covid and never looked back.

Susie on the first day of her cycling marathon (Picture 1) and the first day of volunteering with the Fundraising Team (Picture 2) 

Fitzalan has helped my mental health tremendously. I have been able to integrate with people my own age. I love taking part in cooking games and art.

I started coming to the centre on Fridays. After about a year I decided to extend it to a Wednesday as well. I have come out of my shell so much: from a quiet shy young lady to someone with a lot to say!

Last year I was honoured to speak at the Guild Care AGM. The speech outlined how Guild Care as a charity and Fitzalan have helped me both physically and mentally. It also boosted my confidence and I got a round of applause for it.

In January 2022 I became a member of Guild Care’s Fundraising Team as a volunteer. Originally, I went to the office at Methold House however due to the pandemic I work from Fitzalan at present.

I have also done a sponsored cycle to raise money for guidance. This was the equivalent of a marathon over a month on a static bike. I am proud to have raised £849 for the charity. I am planning to make it a yearly event so keep your eyes peeled on social media for next year’s event!

I also have helped with interviews for new staff. I feel that I have been able to see past my disability and don’t want to go home!

Please, please continue to support Fitzalan and other Guild Care services. It is not only a lifeline to me but fellow clients and parents and carers alike.

Donate to Guild Care today to support people like Susie to live well, enjoy life, and love every day.