Donna’s Journey to Building a New Future: A Story of Support and Empowerment

Donna was in a difficult place when she first walked through the doors of Cornwall Neighbourhoods for Change (CN4C), a specialist partner of the People Hub.

She wasn’t involved in any community activities or training at the time. But a close friend, who had experienced positive changes through CN4C, encouraged her to reach out and see how they could help. It was a small step that would soon lead to a world of new opportunities.

When Donna arrived, she was feeling overwhelmed. She had just become the primary carer for her two children, which added financial pressure and emotional strain. Her mental health was also a concern and she wasn’t sure where to turn next. After a conversation with the team about her hopes for the future, Donna was referred to the People Hub’s Parent Power project, a programme designed to provide support for parents facing similar challenges.

The team quickly identified ways they could assist her. They talked through her aspirations, and Donna revealed her dream of becoming a dog trainer. She had a passion for animals and wanted to explore self-employment in the future. While she worked towards that goal, the People Hub team helped her take immediate action. They supported her in making a claim for Universal Credit, ensuring she had the financial assistance she needed to support herself and her children.

Clair, a dedicated support worker at CN4C, went above and beyond. She found a dog-training course that was a perfect fit for Donna and guided her through the complex process of applying for Universal Credit. But that wasn’t all—Clair also learned that Donna had an interest in joining an Aqua-Aerobics class at her local leisure centre. Recognising the benefits of this for Donna’s physical and mental health, the People Hub funded a one-month pool membership, allowing Donna to participate in the class.

This support proved to be transformative. Donna’s mental health began to improve as she gained confidence through her training and socialising with others in the Aqua-Aerobics class. The physical activity was helping her feel stronger, while the interactions with like-minded people provided a boost to her self-esteem.

With the financial stability of Universal Credit, Donna was able to focus on her future without the constant worry about money. Starting her dog-training course was a major turning point—it reignited her passion for learning and motivated her to build the business she dreamed of. She also found herself spending more time at the CN4C hub in Redruth, attending group sessions and using the space to build confidence.

Today, Donna is excited about what lies ahead. She feels empowered, supported and ready to embrace the next chapter of her life. She is incredibly grateful to CN4C and the People Hub for providing her with the resources and encouragement to take control of her future.

Through the help of the People Hub and CN4C, Donna has not only found the tools to build her business but also the strength to thrive. And as she looks forward to the future she knows that, with the right support, she can accomplish anything.