We caught up with one of our brilliant mental health and wellbeing recovery programme tutors in Colchester, Delia Barber. From former student to tutor, we talked about her story, what led her to become a tutor, and why she is so passionate about helping others.
Delia Barber began her educational journey with ACL back in 1993, initially pursuing courses in Hair and Beauty. It was a fulfilling start to her career, but her interests evolved over time. A few years later, she developed a keen interest in mental health and undertook several courses in this field, including counselling level two.
Her life took a challenging turn when the COVID-19 pandemic struck. Delia became seriously ill, resulting in multiple hospital visits and six open surgeries. Once the restrictions lifted and her health improved, she decided to enrol this time on to the mental health recovery programme. At a particularly low point in her life, Delia’s mental health was significantly impacted by her physical health struggles and the responsibility of caring for her elderly mother.
“The mental health programme made a massive difference to me,” Delia recalls. “I was able to help the group I was in set up a friendship group so they could keep up the support after they left the programme.”
This experience sparked a realization in Delia that she could use her knowledge and experiences to help others. She initially sought to volunteer in mental health courses but was encouraged by her former tutor to consider teaching instead. Delia embraced the opportunity, successfully interviewed for a position, and began her journey as a tutor.
“It has really changed my life working for ACL,” Delia says. “I love helping others and I can use my experience as a former learner to empathize with the learners, as well as my own life experiences and difficulties.”
Today, Delia Barber passionately teaches the mental health and wellbeing recovery programme, drawing from her personal journey and educational background to support her students. She strongly recommends the programme to everyone, highlighting its profound impact on her life and the lives of others.
If you are interested in one of our Wellbeing or Mental Health Recovery Courses being apart of your own wellbeing journey then you can find out more Here.
