29 July 2025
LW is 31 years old and brings lived experience of challenges with alcohol to her volunteering at ROADS. Now over three years into her recovery, she’s passionate about helping others find their own path. A single parent since 2012, LW faced a long battle with dependence and mental health - and now uses her story to inspire and support others.
8th April 2022 was the day my life changed for the better. I am now motivated to help others and guide them through addiction and into recovery.
“I come from a chaotic family lifestyle. I have been a single parent since 2012. I misused alcohol from 19 to 27 years old, and I suffered from depression and anxiety from age 18. I have been referred for ADHD assessment.”
“Before volunteering, I suffered badly with anxiety and depression. I was afraid of going outdoors, even stepping foot out to hang the washing, I would cancel appointments, plans, and hide away. I woke up one day and I'd had enough. I needed to get out of this mindset of feeling hopeless and useless."
LW decided to chase up her application she'd sent off to volunteer.
Since volunteering, my confidence has boosted, my anxiety has subsided, and it’s helped me through, making changes for myself that I thought I’d never have the confidence to do.
LW has found it challenging to deal with her lack of confidence, but in the eight months she has volunteered at ROADS, she has become an indispensable part of the team.
She supports group facilitation, has been trained, and uses her skills to provide Naloxone training and distribution to clients. She has also been supporting a worker in the Shared Care Provision, who has complimented her on how she adapts to changing needs in a busy environment.
Without LW on a Wednesday, I would be working until 7pm. She is amazing. She has helped me no end and removed a lot of stress from my day. She is growing in confidence daily.
- Shared Care Worker about LW
Recovery is stronger with support.
Join the WithYou team as a volunteer and help others find their way forward.
