A WOMAN who overcame her own mental health challenges is now helping others with their recovery.

Five years ago Zoey Quinn suffered from severe depression, anxiety, paranoia and symptoms of psychosis.

She was under the care of the Individual Placement and Support service, run by Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust with the aim of helping people with mental health conditions to find and sustain employment.

But Zoey didn't feel ready to work at the time and was discharged, with the assurance that the service would always be there should she need it.

She was subsequently referred back to the initiative in 2022, and assigned to employment specialist Will Vaughan.

And the move proved life-changing.

"I cannot describe how grateful I am for all the support and help I received throughout my time under this service," says Zoey.

"I felt it was hopeless that I couldn’t find a new job which I considered meaningful, but Will helped me to discover my dream role!

"He spent a lot of time preparing me for interviews and assisting with applications.

"The comprehensive support received from the service extended beyond finding employment. Will helped me rebuild trust in people and instilled hope for the future. For the first time in my life, I feel happy in my workplace. The service gave me a fresh chance to start a new life.

"I am immensely grateful to Will and the service. Thank you for opening so many doors for me – now it’s time to help others!".

Zoey is now employed as a peer support and community engagement worker with the care trust’s Future Focus team, helping young people and adults across Bradford district and Airedale with mental health challenges.

Will says: "We are delighted that Zoey has found a role she is passionate about and is thriving in her new career.

"We know that being in work is a key part of recovery from mental ill health for many people and gaining employment can have a positive impact on emotional wellbeing – restoring confidence, hope and a sense of purpose."

Since it was launched in 2015, the Individual Placement and Support service has helped over 400 people back into work.

For more about the service, visit bdct.nhs.uk/services/making-work-work or email employment.service@bdct.nhs.uk

Further information about all mental health and wellbeing support services in Bradford district and Craven, and self-help resources and apps, can be found at healthyminds.services