Katie’s Story
In January of 2026, Katie’s world was completely shattered. Her dearly beloved Mum Tina, whom she had been close with her whole life, unexpectedly passed away after suffering from a heart attack.
The tragedy struck just one day after she began her new job within her local County Council. She unfortunately had to take bereavement leave, but Katie was so stricken with grief and anxiety, her GP signed her off work for the foreseeable future.
Not only a month after her Mum’s passing, Katie also suffered from a miscarriage and was admitted to hospital that night. Frightened, heartbroken, she felt completely isolated and lost.
Katie called our team at Cirencester Friendly to claim on her income protection. She was grateful for the quick assessment of her case, resulting in a fast payment.
After hearing her situation, our team also referred her to Friendly Voice; our wellbeing and support service provided by RedArc. Knowing she needed help navigating this new chapter in her life, she accepted the assistance.
Zena, a mental health nurse at RedArc, became Katie’s contact and confidant. Zena helped her with coping techniques, reassurance and genuine compassion when listening, and talking her through grief, helping to get her back to her everyday.
She provided ways to handle with daily triggers, bringing her back to the present and focus on what was important in the here and now.
Katie specified that the most reassuring aspect of RedArc’s service was their consistency:
“No waiting lists, no retelling my story to different professionals, just one person who listens, understands and supports me.”
She was comforted greatly by the fact that Zena was only an email or phone call away, providing her with that much needed human connection and understanding.
We’re so glad that Katie has allowed us to share her story and experience with our team, as well as the wonderful support that the RedArc team provided her during the most painful and challenging period of her life. After a short claim period, Katie has returned to work, confident and well.
She hopes that someone hears her story and it encourages them to seek support when they need it, reminding them that something positive can always come from what you endure.