“Sharing is Caring” coffee morning

I am in my late 60’s. I have been using Tassibee services for the past 10 years. I came to know about Tassibee work through my GP. Before coming to Tassibee, I was going through a lot emotionally and socially. I was fearful, anxious, distressed and isolated. This was farther amplified by the fact that I speak no English neither can I write nor read. Therefore, I did not have friends. In addition, I was experiencing many challenges at home.

I care for my son who is in coma and my daughter in law who has severe mental problems. My husband is a taxi driver, so he is hardly at home. Just before coming to Tassibee, I lost a young family member, I was hurting! I was in grief! – I didn’t have anybody to talk to and share my story, my grief and my experience. My translator at the GP referred me to Tassibee and told me that I would be helped, as there were other women from my culture, who spoke my language that would listen to me.

I met Khalida, the Tassibee manager, and upon hearing my story, she was empathetic and introduced me to other women who come to Tassibee. I was introduced to the Friday prayer sessions, and after the prayer, women sit and dine together over lunch, sharing stories and experiences. I have been frequent in this session and this has made me gain confidence as well as spiritual nourishment.

I also used to struggle accessing services, as I had to wait for a translator, not enough, I was not aware of the available services, and since coming to Tassibee, I have been signposted to various disabled services. Tassibee volunteers read my letters and assists me in scheduling my appointments.

I feel confident, empowered and I am no longer isolated. Being in a group makes me have a sense of belonging, identity and security.