BLOG: Marc’s Story

07 May BLOG: Marc’s Story

Marc is one of our wonderful clients, and his journey shows how the right support at the right time can make a lasting difference. 

Originally from Guildford, Marc spent much of his working life on the move. After training as an aircraft electrician, he worked for British Aerospace for ten years before going freelance for two decades, travelling widely and building a varied career. 

But when the COVID-19 lockdown hit, everything changed. 

“I didn’t qualify for furlough and suddenly I was stuck in my flat on my own,” Marc explains. “That’s when I first started to notice my mental health being affected.” 

Like many people, the isolation of lockdown took its toll. Marc began to question why he was struggling more than some of his friends and started looking for support. He heard about the local Guildford Safe Haven and began dropping in occasionally. 

“I wasn’t in crisis, but I needed someone to talk to. It helped just having a conversation and getting some advice.” 

From there, Marc was encouraged to explore further support, including speaking to his GP and looking into depression. At the same time, he began reflecting more deeply on himself. 

“I’ve always felt I had autistic traits. During that time, I decided to pursue a diagnosis.” 

After being referred and beginning what would become a long process, Marc was advised to reach out to National Autistic Society. While waiting for a formal diagnosis – a process that can take over a year – he was signposted to Oakleaf. 

“That’s when things really started to change.” 

Building routine and confidence 

Marc became an Oakleaf client around two and a half years ago and quickly found a sense of structure and belonging. 

“I started going to the wellbeing brunch regularly. It gave me something consistent each week.” 

He also accessed counselling, which he found hugely beneficial, and took part in IT sessions to build his skills. Over time, he began attending men’s groups and neurodiversity meetings at Oakleaf, where conversations often went deeper than expected. 

“We’d start with a general chat about the week, but it would naturally turn into more meaningful conversations. You realise you’re not alone.” 

As lockdown restrictions eased, Marc took on different types of work, including roles at the Post Office and labouring jobs, but found the lack of stability challenging. Oakleaf became a constant during that time. 

A new direction 

Over time, Marc’s confidence grew – and so did his ambitions. 

He recently joined Oakleaf’s peer mentoring programme with Russell and has already completed multiple training courses, with more underway. He has also gained experience supporting others through advice and guidance sessions. 

“I really enjoyed it. It made me realise I’d like to work in mental health one day.” 

Now, Marc plays an active role in the community, including supporting others on Oakleaf’s weekly walks. 

“I’m the peer support person on the Tuesday walk. I’ve got life experience, and I want to use that to help others.” 

A long-awaited diagnosis 

Marc was formally diagnosed as autistic at the age of 51, after waiting just over a year. 

“In a way, I’d been asking that question since 2001. But better late than never.” 

The diagnosis helped him better understand himself, but it was the support he received along the way that made the biggest difference. 

“Somewhere to go, and people to talk to” 

“Oakleaf is the only place I’ve found that has consistently given me somewhere to go, advice when I needed it, and opportunities to move forward.” 

From his first visits to Safe Haven, through counselling and group sessions, to training and volunteering, Marc has remained part of the Oakleaf community. 

“I’ve had company. When you’re sitting at home on your own, that makes a huge difference.” 

Marc’s message to others 

“Come and get advice. See what’s available and just give something a try – whether it’s the brunch, gardening, or a group session. You’ve got nothing to lose, and you’ll probably find it really helpful.” 

He adds: 

“If Oakleaf hadn’t been there for me, I’d be very isolated.” 

Get involved 

Stories like Marc’s show the real impact of community-based mental health support, but this work is only possible with continued support. 

If you’re looking for help, want to give back, or would like to support others on their journey: 

👉 Reach out to the Oakleaf team today: 01483 303649 | client-services@oakleaf-enterprise.org  
👉 Volunteer your time or skills: www.oakleaf-enterprise.org/support-us  
👉 Make a donation to help us support more people like Marc: https://checkout.justgiving.com/ebsfek6gxk  

Every action – big or small – helps someone feel less alone.