Mark’s story
Unable to find comparable work following the collapse of the company he was working for, Mark was obliged to take low paid, short-term seasonal work with a massive downturn in his lifestyle and financial wellbeing.
The resulting financial issues caused a severe decline in Mark’s mental health. Depression began to bear down on him. Not even able to summon the strength to get out of bed, he grappled with thoughts of escaping the torment through the unthinkable.
Mark’s journey towards recovery began with a glimmer of hope when his GP referred him for therapy, but he then discovered there was an 18-month waiting list!
Unable to admit his struggles to anyone in his Lodge, Mark made a call directly to the MCF and we then arranged for a Visiting Volunteer to come to his home. Following an assessment of his financial situation, Mark quickly received short-term support from the MCF, to help cover his immediate needs.
An MCF Advisor then got in touch and displayed remarkable sensitivity to my emotional struggles which enabled me to talk openly and freely. When I revealed the wait for NHS therapy, she offered me a lifeline, a phone number that would start my path from despair. That call led to a comprehensive assessment of my needs culminating in a connection with a compassionate therapist, all of which was fully funded by the MCF.
“The immediate support I received paved the way for more intensive therapy and my journey of recovery. Throughout this process, the benevolent presence of my Lodge Almoner served as a constant reminder that I was never alone. I felt supported every step of the way. When recently asked by my Lodge to choose a charity to support, there was one clear choice for me – the MCF.” – Mark
