A Newfound Purpose

Alex joined Bramber Bakehouse in March 2024, after being referred by her medical practitioner. As a survivor of domestic abuse, Alex was looking for an opportunity to gain new skills, meet like-minded women and connect with others. Alex had lost her mum just 18 months ago, a loss that left a profound void in her life. Having dedicated years to caring for her, Alex now found herself searching for a new sense of purpose in a world that felt unfamiliar without her mum.

During our time getting to know Alex, we’ve enjoyed her wonderful sense of humour and her love for making others laugh. She also has a lifetime of hard-earned wisdom, which she generously and sensitively shared with the other women in our programme.

Her journey, from initial hesitation to newfound purpose, encapsulates the essence of what Bramber Bakehouse strives to achieve. Using our strengths-based, trauma-informed approach, we’re grateful for the opportunity to share Alex’s experience. This story highlights the powerful impact of community, support, and personal growth. 

Alex was introduced to Bramber Bakehouse by her medical practitioner. The recommendation to join a community of women in similar situations was a beacon of hope. “I was lonely and the past wasn’t great for me,” she recalls, “that’s what brought me to Bramber Bakehouse – I was surrounded by women with similar backgrounds.”

The first day at Bramber Bakehouse was full of emotion for Alex. She was anxious, frequently retreating to the restroom to calm her nerves. “Even my taxi driver could sense my nerves,” she shares. However, the support and camaraderie she found there began to ease her anxiety. “I really enjoyed it,” she admits. “Even my taxi driver started to see the change in me each week.”

One of the most significant aspects of Alex’s experience was the diverse community at Bramber Bakehouse. Initially daunting, the variety of backgrounds and languages soon became a source of inspiration. “We wanted to help each other,” Alex says. “I could be of use here.” This inclusive environment, where differences were embraced, broadened her understanding of others’ lives and struggles.

As a gay woman, Alex shares that she experienced acceptance and love in a place where she often feared rejection. “Most religions would say ‘nah,’ but everyone loved me,” she says, reflecting on the acceptance she found at Bramber Bakehouse. This acceptance allowed Alex to be herself and contributed significantly to her happiness and sense of belonging.

Alex’s journey at Bramber Bakehouse was marked by personal growth and newfound confidence. She recalls how her baking skills, initially a source of uncertainty, became a point of pride. “When our baking teacher complimented my baking, a firework went off in my head! I’ve done alright here,” she beams. The laughter and shared experiences with volunteers and fellow participants created happy memories and a sense of achievement.

The support Alex received at Bramber Bakehouse extended beyond baking. Living with arthritis, Alex recalls the acceptance she felt when she was supported by volunteers and staff who stepped in to help when needed. “It was selfless. Wonderful,” she says, expressing gratitude for the help and the friendships formed. Alongside this Alex experienced a newfound purpose: “This gave me a purpose because I wanted to help others,” she says. 

The most significant change Alex experienced was the powerful, unspoken bond formed with the other women. There was a unique shared understanding and support system amongst the group. “There was a bond there,” Alex reflects. “You could choose to speak up, be quiet; there was that silent bond of understanding one another.”

Today, Alex continues to receive support from Bramber Bakehouse through their befriending services. Her hopes for the future include spending time with family, volunteering, and staying engaged with the community. “The future’s looking good! Bramber Bakehouse kick-started me, and I’m carrying on,” she says with optimism.

To any woman considering joining Bramber Bakehouse, Alex has this advice: “Push yourself to go. Because by the end of it, you’ll come out wonderful. A different person. You’ll think differently. The team bond is just wonderful. Everyone looks out for one another. Don’t put your fears before yourself. Just go.”

“I’m forever grateful to my medical practitioner for putting me forward for this opportunity.”

Alex’s story is a testament to the transformative power of baking, wellbeing support and shared community. Her journey from anxiety to confidence, from isolation to community, and from pain to purpose, embodies the mission we have here.