Martyn’s story

Martyn was helped back into the world of work thanks to our Suffolk Work Well service – and is now giving up his time to support people with their mental health.

Martyn had been working in the public sector when multiple changes to his team dynamics saw an increase in stress, which eventually led to him experiencing symptoms of depression.

The decline in his mental health saw him avoid work – and the outside world in general – as his attempts to resolve the situation hit a stumbling block within the organisation.

It was then that a colleague recommended Suffolk Mind and our Suffolk Work Well service, which provides free employment support for those looking to retain employment. The service also supports those looking to gain or regain employment, education or volunteering and help them overcome barriers to both that and their mental wellbeing.

Martyn said: “I felt like I had been pushed to the edge. I didn’t want to do anything – I felt like I wanted out of my life.

“I took time off with stress, and a colleague who was going through a similar experience told me to give Suffolk Mind a ring. That’s how I found my case worker, Nicki.”

Nicki helped arrange numerous meetings with Martyn’s employer to help resolve the situation, identifying barriers and problems and helping advise on steps and reasonable adjustments that could be taken to better meet his needs.

He was also given access to The Mental Health Toolkit (The Essentials) course, helping him better understand his physical and emotional needs and identify areas for improvement and growth. The Toolkit helped him identify which of his needs may not be fully met and which needs are being met, enabling him to know which ones need a little work and helping him identify those needs in others. 

Martyn eventually returned to work and continued to keep in touch with Nicki and the Suffolk Mind team, who were always on hand to provide support if necessary.

Martyn said: “I wouldn’t be here without Nicki. She has been the rock for me to lean against when I’ve not felt in the best place.

“Even now I know that if I’m not feeling ok, I can pick up the phone and speak to her. She always makes the time to support me.

“To me she is one in a million – she’s the sister I never had.”

Now enjoying an early retirement, Martyn is giving back to Suffolk Mind having trained and enrolled as a Volunteer, supporting across multiple areas of the business. This has included the Suffolk Work Well service, assisting at promotional and fundraising events (especially those concerning men’s mental health), as well as attending our Waves group with other Suffolk Work Well staff to talk about the service and their roles.

Martyn intends to expand on his volunteering with Suffolk Mind in 2025.

Martyn added: “Volunteering is great. I really enjoy it. It’s my way of saying thank you for looking after me.”

Learn more about our Suffolk Work Well service.

Take a look at Martyn talking about his experiences in our ‘How do we…?’ video.