Debbie Sutherley joined Mind and Be Active in November 2015 after a referral from hospital.
Having suffered from mental health and wellbeing issues from the age of 14 and had been in and out of hospital regularly.
After joining the group, Debbie gained great confidence from the project, and became a volunteer.
Debbie said: “I am totally honoured as a couple of years ago I didn’t know I was going to be here. My inspiration is that I have been on the brink and I have had to pull myself back, and I have had the help and support of so many people.
“Mind and Be Active - the way I see it I joined, my volunteering role; I am a walk leader, and the people in my walking group seemed to take inspiration from me and my story but I can deal with vulnerable people because I have been vulnerable myself; in fact I sometimes find it easier to deal with vulnerable people than I do with other people!”
Debbie now leads weekly walks and is an advocate for Mind and Be Active.
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