Laura Francis - In-Sight Trainer and Group Committee Member

I worked for Herts County Council for ten years as a Carer in the community. Within this role I cared for people with all different sorts of disabilities and illnesses including those with mental health problems.
In 2001 I had a diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder which came as a huge shock to myself and my family. We found this time very difficult as the help available from the NHS was minimal.

After some private research, I discovered the Watford self-help group which is run by Heather. The help we received was invaluable.

I joined the self-help group as this was the only real help around and soon realised that this was the way forward for me. I was then asked to join the committee, of which I am still a member.

I was then privileged to do the In-Sight Recovery Training, which has been fantastic and helped me to avoid another episode.

I am now delivering the Course to other people and finding this just as beneficial. Getting back into work has given me self-worth and I’m gaining greater in-sight every day.