A former LEAP patient is helping to inspire and support people who are battling alcohol and drug addiction by dedicating her time to volunteering.
After graduating from LEAP Linda Nichol, 55, Edinburgh, took on a role as a peer supporter drawing on her personal experiences with addiction and trauma which began when she was just 11 years old.
She has now moved on to be a volunteer with NHS Lothian’s Subsistence Misuse Psychology Team where she is helping facilitate patient groups that she used to attend during her own treatment.
Linda explains: “LEAP changed my life. Before taking part in the programme I could never have dreamed I would be where I am today. They helped me recognise that I had a disease and learn how to heal myself so that I could build the confidence I needed to turn my life around.”
While she was living with her alcoholic father Linda turned to alcohol and drugs to cope with life. As a teenager she managed to move away but began to struggle with addiction herself after she miscarried aged 16. Later in life, her relationship with her husband also became abusive. It was then she started her recovery journey.
“I initially went into rehab but relapsed and continued to struggle with my addiction. So, I ended up going into LEAP three years ago and it was the best thing I have ever done. For the first time I was honest about my past and I trusted the groups and therapists, so I talked about everything despite it being difficult.”
“LEAP is different. A lot of the benefit comes from living with the other addicts and learning how to interact with people. And the support doesn’t end after 12 weeks, it’s there for a further two years. I was never afraid to call on LEAP for help and I got loads of support including one-to-ones and group sessions in care, compassion, and mindfulness which are really beneficial.”
Linda discovered a passion for helping others and through LEAP began her volunteering journey. Over the last two years she has provided invaluable support to others in the programme as well as volunteering with a local charity, training in peer support and studying counselling.
“I had never worked before”, says Linda. “It was quite nerve wracking, but it felt safe to do it with LEAP as I was supported and encouraged and benefited from every training opportunity I could get. I found my voice and for the very first time I believed that I was good at something.”
“I had never done much at school, but I’ve now completed my first year of the HNC and passed every essay first time. And it is because I’ve been being encouraged every step of the way.”
“I feel sad and excited at the same time to be leaving LEAP. It all came from LEAP to get the confidence to do the peer supporting and I’m so pleased that I felt safe to try and give it a go. It gave me a belief in myself and it showed me something that I truly believe that I’m good at, having compassion and empathy for others.”
“The greatest reward is having all my children and grandchild in my life and them being proud of me.”
