When Tia first reached out to Doncaster Mind, she was feeling overwhelmed. As a sole carer juggling daily pressures, she recognised that she needed support to regain balance and confidence in her life.  

Through our First Steps wellbeing programme, Tia was introduced to a range of tailored services designed to help her take control of her wellbeing. With guidance from our team, she chose to start with an anger management course — a decision that would become the foundation for her personal growth.  

“The course gave me a toolkit of skills to manage my anger and calm myself more effectively,” Tia shared.  

Armed with new coping strategies, Tia began to feel more in control and ready to focus on the things that brought her joy. She rediscovered her love for crafts, crochet, and fashion design, joining our Crafternoon sessions to explore her creativity in a safe, supportive environment.  

“The sessions were so much fun. They gave me a creative outlet and helped clear my mind despite the pressures of caring,” she said.  

Recognising her growing confidence and passion, our Mental Health Community Connector (MHCC), Emma, continued to support Tia’s next steps. Together, they explored local opportunities where she could nurture her creativity and connect with others. After trying one local craft group that wasn’t quite the right fit, Tia shared her wish to find something more crochet-focused — and Emma listened.  

Drawing on local knowledge and community links, Emma found a ‘Knit and Natter’ group that sounded perfect: friendly, welcoming, and full of laughter. Understanding that new environments can feel daunting, Emma accompanied Tia to her first session, offering reassurance and encouragement.  

Despite initial nerves, Tia was warmly welcomed — and her incredible crocheting skills quickly impressed the group. By the end of the session, she felt more confident and ready to return independently.  

The following week, Tia attended the group alone — a huge milestone that reflected her growing confidence and sense of belonging. Week after week, she became a regular member, sharing stories, laughter, and creativity with her new friends.  

Her talent soon caught the community’s eye. The group invited her to design a crocheted post box topper, a creative project that became a local talking point. The achievement even led to a video interview with St Leger Homes, giving her the chance to share her journey and inspiration. Her colourful creation now brightens the Oval — and she’s already planning her next design!  

Beyond the craft projects, Tia found something even more meaningful: connection.  

“I feel incredibly lucky to have more grandparents than anyone else in the world,” she said, describing the group as a supportive circle that continues to champion her dream of becoming a fashion entrepreneur.  

Reflecting on her journey, Tia said:  

“I’m really proud of how much I’ve overcome. When I accessed support, I trusted the timing — I knew when it was right to ask for help.”  

She also shared how much Doncaster Mind’s approach meant to her:  

“The MHCC was so supportive and easy to talk to. They helped me feel comfortable and confident enough to attend the group alone.”  

From developing emotional coping skills to rediscovering her creativity and community, Tia’s journey shows what’s possible when the right support is in place. Through Doncaster Mind’s wellbeing services and community connections, she has not only built resilience — she’s thriving, creating, and inspiring others to take their own first step toward change.  

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