My name is Bex. I am 20, and I live in Cheshire East. In my spare time, I love visiting family, writing, playing my guitar, and taking late-night walks. I love my job as a nursery supply teacher, which gives me a great sense of fulfilment and confidence.
I started getting involved with Pure Insight when I turned 18. Being a care leaver is isolating due to constant movement. I wanted to meet like-minded individuals and hoped to find a community of people I can relate to. I originally started attending the café, a peer support community event held once every fortnight in Crewe and then decided I wanted to do more. I always told myself that when I reached the top, I’d never forget where I was at my worst, and most importantly, I’d never forget that there are so many young people still struggling to find their voice.
My highlights engaging with Pure Insight have not only been the support I’ve received but also the ability to choose to support others. I love the interview panel evenings, meeting new workers, and discussing why they want the job they’ve applied for. A massive thing I’ve learned is that no matter where we come from, people just want others to be happy, which fills me with hope. As part of my role on the Experts by Experience group, I have also delivered
training to volunteers and professionals in health and social care, education, and shared my experiences and recommendations to help services and policy makers understand what care leavers need and why.
I have grown exponentially since working with Pure Insight. If I were to have a conversation with myself from three years ago and tell them everything that’s happened, especially how far I’ve come, they would probably laugh in my face.
If Pure Insight were a song, I think it would be “Used to Be Young” by Miley Cyrus. Pure Insight has taught me, and many other young people, that no matter where you come from, or
where you want to go: you can do it! My greatest achievement was getting into university. I never
believed in myself much, and I never thought I could do it until I did. When I achieved it, I thought to myself, ‘Why did I ever think I couldn’t do it?’ I think that’s the quote I’ll live by for the rest of my life.
The award means an incredible amount to me. I’ve always had to fight—for my right to live in a safe home, for mental health support, and now, I get to fight for other people’s rights and hope to change the way they receive support. If you are a young person considering connecting with Pure Insight, I would recommend it in a heartbeat. Not only is the community fantastic, but the support you receive is, in my opinion, unmatched. Pure Insight is the bridge that helps you cross the water to get to the other side.
Comments