Kat's Story

Kat moved to Meir in Stoke-on-Trent with her husband and young son from Poland many years ago. At the time, Kat worked in a factory and spent the rest of her time caring for her family. 

On a visit to Poland for work, her husband became seriously ill and needed a heart transplant and could not return to the UK.

For a year, Kat was alone – working and looking after her son without support. Kat became isolated which led to anxiety and depression. She would rarely leave the house and was not socialising with anyone.

Kat realised “I just lost myself somewhere” and was referred into the CRT Engage programme. 

Working with her coach Jenny, she began with small steps, even leaving the house to walk to the end of the street. With Jenny’s support Kat’s health began to improve, Jenny was able to listen and advise with an outside perspective to help Kat take steps to improve her life.

Over time Kat slowly began to believe in herself again and each achievement encouraged her to take further steps forward. 

She then began to work with Jenny and CRT Engage skills coach Jake to improve her skills and look for a new job which would enable Kat to have better opportunities for her and her family. 

After achieving new qualifications, Kat is now working in her dream job as a teaching assistant at a school for children with Special Educational Needs, helping vulnerable young people to reach their full potential.