Danny’s story 

In 2020, I was made redundant from a job I loved, one that suited my skills in communication and technology. I struggled greatly with the loss of my role and with being unemployed in general. This led to a severe breakdown, which left me unable to leave the house or see my family and friends regularly. I experienced serious mental health challenges and found it very difficult to regain my confidence. I was in a dark place and didn’t know where to turn or how I was going to start rebuilding and moving forward. 

Discovering Ashgate Hospice  

A couple of years later, I still wasn’t ready to return to work, but I wanted to do something that would help get me out of the house and interacting with people again.  

I did some research and came across the Digital Skills volunteer role at Ashgate Hospice’s Day Services. I spoke with Head of Day and Support Services, Sarah Kerry about my situation, and she was incredibly patient and understanding. 

Finding my feet again 

The hospice became not only a safe space for me, but also a place to grow and practise my communication skills again. Before my breakdown, I enjoyed performing in theatre productions and singing on stage – all of which stopped when my confidence disappeared. Ashgate helped give me the courage to believe that one day, I might perform in theatre again. 

Eventually, I began thinking about what returning to work might look like for me. It was a long process preparing myself to re-enter employment after four years. Following my mental health challenges, I knew I needed to find the right fit and take things slowly. 

Ideally, I wanted to work for Ashgate, as the hospice was already familiar to me and I had gained so much from my volunteering experiences there. I applied and interviewed for the part-time role of New Goods Sales Assistant. During the interview, I was very open and honest about everything I had been through over the past four years. 

I was offered the position, and now, in my second month back in employment, I couldn’t be happier.