BLOG: Alex’s Story

05 Aug BLOG: Alex’s Story

Alex came to Oakleaf during a tough time. Today, he’s part of the team, supporting others while building his own future. We’re proud to share his story: 

“I want to express my deep gratitude for the support I’ve received from Oakleaf, and to share the difference it’s made.” 

For many years, Alex lived with anxiety and depression, often finding himself in crisis with nowhere to turn. It was during one of these particularly difficult times that he discovered Oakleaf’s Safe Haven – not just a service, but a lifeline. 

“The Safe Haven was there when I had no other support. It wasn’t just a relief for me; it was a huge help to my mum too, who didn’t know how to support me at the time. Around that same period, Oakleaf also supported my family when my younger brother experienced a mental health crisis. They helped guide us through what was a pretty overwhelming time.” 

It was a turning point, one that led to much more support and opportunity through Oakleaf. 

Referred initially by a family member, Alex didn’t pay much attention at first. But when his mental health began to decline further, he reached out. 

Through Oakleaf’s Path to Success programme, Alex attended workshops and one-to-one sessions with employment advisors. He learned how to write a CV, gained essential IT skills (including Photoshop and Microsoft Office), and began rebuilding a daily routine, all with encouragement from the Oakleaf team. 

“A huge help was the laptop Oakleaf provided. It helped me get online, learn new skills, apply for jobs, and rebuild my confidence. Having access to that helped me feel more capable.” 

In 2023, while living in supported housing, Alex faced a particularly difficult period. With Oakleaf’s guidance, he and his family were connected to the right services and got the support they needed to navigate it. Around that time, he was also encouraged to try volunteering. 

He began on reception, which helped him bring structure into his life and ease back into a work environment. It wasn’t long before the Client Services team recognised his potential and encouraged him to take on more. 

“I slowly increased my days and hours, started helping with admin work, and eventually began shadowing Tommy, a member of the Bridge the Gap team. I went along to networking events, conferences, and regular meetings. It opened my eyes to how much I loved this kind of work.” 

As his confidence grew, so did the opportunities. Alex began volunteering five days a week and was soon offered a paid role as a support worker at Safe Haven, working alongside the same team who had once supported him in crisis. He also played a key role in the Advice and Support service, helping clients navigate practical challenges around benefits, housing, health, and more. 

“Seven years ago, I came to Safe Haven as a client and spoke to Tommy who, funnily enough, is my manager today. So, I’ve ended up supporting people in the same way I was once supported. A proper full-circle moment.” 

“One moment that really stood out was helping a young man at Safe Haven. I shared my own lived experience, and he could really relate. That connection meant so much to him, and to me. It was really empowering.” 

Today, Alex also works across both the Client Services and Safe Haven teams in client-facing roles; supporting people in crisis, listening, offering guidance, and signposting them to further help. What started as a few volunteer hours has become a career with purpose. 

“Before Oakleaf, I wasn’t in any place to go back to work. Now, after 10 years of unemployment, I’m 100% ready. I’ve found the field I want to be in.” 

His lived experience – once a source of struggle – is now a strength. Alex’s voice is being heard across the mental health community in Surrey. He has been invited to share his insights at networking events and with partners like Surrey County Council and Changing Futures. 

“I feel like I’m part of a team. I feel valued. That sense of belonging has opened so many doors for me. For the first time in a long time, I have hope for the future, and I owe that to Oakleaf.” 

If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Help is always available. For more information about our services, please visit: www.oakleaf-enterprise.org/I-need-help/#what-services-can-i-access and for general information about Oakleaf, visit: www.oakleaf-enterprise.org/i-need-help/