Anne Barrett
Posted : 26th November 2011
Anne Barrett enrolled on her first weekend short course in 2002, following the advice and encouragement of her community psychiatric nurse. For Anne, coming to Fircroft became a way of fighting her crippling depression and mental illness.
“When I first came to Fircroft I was so introverted I couldn’t speak to anyone and had to carry a cuddly toy around with me for security. A lot of the other students have experienced similar problems and are very supportive of each other. The tutors build your confidence and get the best out of you. No-one judges or labels you at Fircroft.”
Anne eventually progressed onto the Access course at Fircroft before being accepted onto the African Studies degree course at the University of Birmingham. Despite leaving Fircroft three years ago, Anne still visits the College to chat with staff and students.
“It’s a wonderful place – a safe haven. My time there helped me to find something in myself that I never knew I had – the ‘old Anne’ would never recognise me now!”
