After eight years of isolation and severe mental health battles, Bert began working with Derek, an Outreach Worker from Change Mental Health. Through consistent support and connection to community groups, Bert reconnected with his wife and community and found reasons to keep going. 

Bert was referred to Change Mental Health’s resource centre in Stranraer by his Primary Care Mental Health Nurse. He was experiencing severe depression, suicidal ideation and complete social withdrawal. He had not left his home for eight years. 

“Family relations became strained and I struggled with day-to-day challenges and life,” Bert says.  

Derek Morrison, an Outreach Support Worker who works for Change Mental Health services in Stranraer, recalls: “He couldn’t see any way forward and felt the only way to get through was by suicide. He had previously had two suicide attempts.” 

Bert’s induction to the service was gentle, making sure he knew that support was at his pace and person-centred. “I explained the service and what we could do, how it may help. Most importantly, I never pushed him, as he was very resistant to changes at the start,” says Derek. “During the first few weeks of support, I went out to see him and chatted to build up a relationship and he got to know me in a familiar environment. I approached activities sensitively and respectfully during these sessions, without judgement.” 

Bert said:

“I immediately felt Change Mental Health was the right service for me.  We had weekly appointments at home at first, later joining the men’s peer support group through the resource centre.”  

Change Mental Health’s resource centre in Stranraer offers a range of support, including peer groups, wellbeing activities and one-to-one outreach for people living with mental health challenges. The model of support delivered by Outreach Workers like Derek is particularly important to those in rural parts of Wigtownshire who might not be able to access other forms of help.  

Derek began encouraging Bert to reconnect with past interests. “We openly had conversations about what he used to do and worked on these points by looking at what’s available in the community. I researched and presented him with ideas and I supported him in going along with those he chose. This work was done over many weeks.”

One of the things Bert enjoyed was walking and working with his hands. Derek suggested contacting the local branch of Men’s Sheds and signing up for the men’s walking group run by Change Mental Health and Versus Arthritis Scotland.  

“I felt the Men’s Sheds helped me feel useful again and helped build up my confidence to try new activities,” Bert says. “I felt good about the activities as they were community-led and I reconnected with people again.” 

“By encouraging Bert to keep going to local groups when he could, his confidence increased massively,” says Derek. “I slowly reduced support as he felt better about attending groups and being involved with activities. 

Bert’s progress also had a positive impact at home, helping him go to places with his wife and build the relationship back up.

“I now have a happier relationship with my wife. We’ve since gone abroad on holiday, visited family in New Zealand and gone to local shows. The two of us go to the gym together.” 

Bert is now self-managing his condition and no longer requires outreach support. He continues to attend his walking group and has planned holidays for 2025. 

“Bert came to see me recently to let me know how much better he is and how he is now enjoying his life with all the new social circles he has formed,” Derek says.  

Bert concluded:

“I’m happier than I’ve been in years. Without Derek’s support, I wouldn’t be here today. I can’t thank him enough for helping me get my life back. 

 “There is always hope and it’s not too late. Take the support when you need it.”