Hazel, a lady from Havering who has experienced Local Area Coordination first-hand, has written the following beautiful poem to portray her experiences. Please have a read!

Local Area Coordinators
by Hazel

There are times in my life when I’ve been so mistreated
It’s so hard to pick myself up, I feel so defeated
Ignored, not included, I shut myself away
Hope I’ll have the confidence to get out each day

I need to get out and finally feel free
One step at a time then closer to my goal I will be
But often I fight the battles in my head
When I should be focusing on moving forward instead

Constantly filled with an abundance of confusion
Nothing was clear it was an optical illusion.
But now at times I can see a clear path
Instead of just worrying sometimes I can laugh

Your support’s been amazing, you’re stars shining bright
Encouraging me to come out of the dark and into the light
Gives me a chance to venture out
Grow in confidence without any doubt

It’s nice to know there is someone to call
Instead of suffering and thinking I’ll fall
Letting me know that people do care
It makes a difference to know you are there

A team of people coming together
Loosening the valve and easing the pressure
Knowing I have someone to be my guide
Someone to walk alongside me with the support they provide

Sometimes I still struggle to work out the answers
It’s often like watching a ballet without any dancers
Even though there are still times that I struggle
It’s reassuring to know you can help solve the puzzle.

You’re honest and understanding and care about me
You help me to focus and help me to see
So thank you from the bottom of my heart
You help me get heard and not fall apart