Jean

“My husband passed away just over 12 months ago. We always did everything together so I suddenly found myself spending a lot of time at home and reluctant to go anywhere. I became more dependent on others and was depressed and lonely.

“A good friend of mine told me about a coffee morning she was going to at West Bromwich Library and encouraged me to go along with her. The groups I attend have helped me to become more active and have given me a purpose to get up and out on a regular basis. I was encouraged to become a member of Ideal for All and began going out on their day trips.

“As time passed I am feeling less anxious about going out on my own. I have met some lovely people who have the same or similar experiences themselves. Being part of them has helped me feel better about myself and more willing to try things on my own and be less socially inactive.”