Service User's Experiences Peter's Story I came to St Anne's over twenty years ago. My life had been torn apart with my illness, and I was quite devastated. In many ways I was very confused, coming to terms with my illness was difficult. There had been many times I had spent in High Royds and St James's Hospitals. I was very unhappy, disappointed and depressed. I was given the choice of having my own accommodation (which I knew that being isolated, I would be not long back in hospital again), or going into one of St Anne's hostels. I chose Ashwood Lodge, as there would be people and staff about to help. After two and a half years, as was promised, I moved into my own flat at Oak Road, where I have been ever since. My flat gave me a foundation and somewhere I could build my life again from. It became like a sanctuary where I had shelter and safety from the hardships of the world. I began doing courses in art and my self-esteem and confidence began to return. Through the security of my home and creativity, I was again restoring my world. The quality of my life has become enriched. I have become to realise what freedom really means. The support I am given helps me feel better again, and much pressure has been lifted off me. Now I am able to express myself more fully and contribute to life more. Through poetry and painting my life has become more complete, whole and with more value. By having my flat, I have begun to create a world where I can be happy and contented, living the life I at one time could only have dreamed of. I am aware and grateful how much a home of my own has helped me recover and live life more to the full. I know how important it is for someone with a mental illness to be understood and listened to. It is limitless, boundless, what we can achieve even through the challenges and hard times we may come across. With more compatible drugs, all seems well for the future. St Anne's gives support and care which is invaluable in the lives of so many and promotes growth, harmony and balance, giving hope to many who find life hard to cope with. I am just one who is grateful for the work St Anne's does for those who are in need of housing and shelter, giving us the chance to live good, rich, rewarding lives once more. St Anne's Community Services, 6 St Mark's Avenue, Leeds LS2 9BN Tel : 0113 2435151 Fax: 0113 2451526 E-mail: info@st-annes.org.uk St Anne's Community Services is a Registered Charity, No. 502224, a Registered Housing Association, No. H3158, and a Company Limited by Guarantee, No. 1089026