Introducing Rory

In June 2024, Rory McDermott came across Arty-Folks through a Facebook post. At the time, he was unemployed, job hunting, and supporting his family through a tough period.

“I had completed my Degree and then also a Masters and I just couldn’t get a job.  It was pretty demoralising having to move back home as an adult and the future started to look somewhat bleak.  I was always into art in my younger days but I’d fallen out of it.  I picked it back up during lockdown, just working on my own.

I completed Arty-Folks 3-week course which introduced me to painting with acrylics and also to art as a way of working through thoughts and feelings.  I then moved on to one of the many Creative Peer Support groups, hoping to simply stay active and creative.  At the time, it was the only thing I did during the week and it gave me some structure, something to hold on to. 

As the weeks went on and I was learning about myself through the projects, something else began to shift.  Art became a way to pause the noise and bring focus back into my life.  It took my mind off those endlessly negative ruminations and I learnt to just focus on the tasks in front of me.  One of the projects that really stood out for me was a silhouette collage made with black card, that helped me explore the different aspects of my life. It was something I’d never done before and it introduced me to a way of being creative that at the same time helps you work through what is holding you back.

My self-confidence grew bit by bit over time and I joined other activities and courses to build my skills for employment.  When the REACH Peer Support Worker role came up with Arty-Folks I didn’t hesitate to apply.  I knew that the opportunity to use my lived experience and recovery story to help others was just right for me. 

The message I’m hoping to put across is that you don’t have to walk it alone!  There are people out there like myself who can help you navigate difficult transitions using their own lived experience.  By sharing my own story I hope to break down the formalities people expect from mental health services.   What we offer is not ‘treatment’ or ‘therapy’.  It’s more a conversation between two adults on an equal level with mutual respect.  It’s the kind of conversation I would have loved to have had with health professionals when I was struggling, but it just wasn’t available then. 

The first thing I will say to people I will be working with is: “The fact that you’ve made it to this point is a milestone in itself!  Reaching out for help is anything but easy or comfortable.  I’m here to walk alongside you as you are taking one step at a time towards your goals and the quality of life you are seeking.”

For more information about Arty-Folks REACH service: https://arty-folks.org.uk/what-we-offer/reach-peer-support-service/

To meet Arty-Folks staff team visit: https://arty-folks.org.uk/about-us/meet-the-team/