Antonia had been using drugs and alcohol from the age of 12. She was in a pattern of behaviour that slowly got worse until she ended up overdosing. During that time, Antonia lost her friends, family, job, home, but most devastatingly, she lost her sense of self.
“I knew I wanted to stop, but I just didn’t know how.”
Eventually, Antonia went to see her doctor, and was referred to a residential rehabilitation facility, where she spent four months. It saved her life.
When Antonia was first in recovery, she found it hard to get a job, as no one would give her an opportunity due to the months she had spent out of work.
One day, she met a friend working at The Forward Trust who encouraged her to apply for the Forward Trainee Scheme. Antonia decided to apply and was successful, so she received full training and mentoring in a role at head office.
After completing the Trainee Scheme, Antonia was offered a permanent job with Forward, who supported her in completing an NVQ in Business and Administration. Antonia then decided that she wanted to continue her education and has since gained a BA with the Open University.
“Forward have given me the job I always dreamed of finding!
“Because of Forward, everything is different. Not only do I have a stable job and home, but I have dignity, self-respect, and really feel like I am giving back to society.
“I am so proud of myself for getting my life back together, but I am most proud of my amazing relationship with my family and my daughter.”
