After being diagnosed with schizophrenia, Steven endured a lot of bullying at school which then continued into his adulthood. Steven is a cross dresser, he feels comfortable in women’s clothes but has faced violence and judgement which then took a toll on his mental health. Vee’s Place has created him a space to express himself and meet new people. Here’s his story:
“I’ve been coming to Vee’s Place for the last 4 years and it’s been very important for me. I’ve been in and out of hospital for my schizophrenia and feel disconnected from my community. Ever since a young age, I’ve had a drinking problem and currently on the waiting list for alcoholism rehabilitation. Vees Place continues to support me which is so important until I can get the in-hospital stay with the specialists to tackle my alcohol-use. Before Vee’s Place, most of my social life was centred around the pubs and clubs, and I lived a constant battle to avoid discrimination or isolation.
I used to meet other people who cross dress in Liverpool’s China town however it is a struggle to go across town into Liverpool in the dark and I felt vulnerable. When I talked about my situation to Vee she offered the centred to me and my friends as a safe place. I pop in for a cup of tea and I’m given an opportunity to dress up and be myself. I would feel very lonely if I didn’t have this place and Vee.”
Founder Vee said “Like many individuals who attend Vee’s Place they aren’t only struggling with one issue but have multiple needs, but we accommodate the person as a whole. The continuing support of our beneficiaries through the different phases of their lives is about understanding their individual needs and not boxing them into convenient categories of mental health, LGBTQ+, substance abuse etc. We love seeing Steven here and creating long-standing relationships in the community he lives in.”
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