Laura's Story
After years of living with serious mental health difficulties, Laura found a new sense of purpose at FST’s SMaRT Garage, and is now training to become a motor vehicle technician.
2023: Case Study
Laura’s path to a career in the automotive industry began after years of living with serious and enduring mental health difficulties.
Her childhood was a difficult one, and by her teenage years she was already struggling. By the age of 17, Laura had developed anorexia nervosa.
Despite these challenges, Laura went on to university and later married, though the years that followed brought further periods of upheaval and isolation, and her health eventually deteriorated to the point of hospitalisation.
It was during treatment for anorexia that something shifted.
“Something changed for me, I began to realise that I wanted to get better and stay as well as I possibly could.”
In October 2021, Laura was referred to First Step Trust (FST), a charity that helps people facing mental health and addiction challenges build the confidence and skills they need to pursue careers in the automotive and catering sectors.
She joined FST’s SMaRT Garage in Woolwich, South East London, and quickly discovered she had a real aptitude and enthusiasm for working on vehicles.
“It felt really good to be able to fix things. I enjoy all aspects of the job, including using diagnostic equipment to find faults,” says Laura. “Working in the garage has given me so much self-confidence and self-belief. I enjoy teaching others and feel useful. My life has a new purpose and meaning.”
Laura is now preparing to start a Level 2 Motor Vehicle Technician course, made possible with financial support from the Palmer Foundation – a charity founded by former Aston Martin CEO Andy Palmer. FST and the Palmer Foundation are part of a wider partnership dedicated to creating new pathways into automotive careers for people from disadvantaged backgrounds, alongside Halfords, London South East Colleges, and the Institute of Motor Industry.
“I wanted to go to college last year but simply couldn’t afford the costs involved,” says Laura. “My ambition is to develop a career in the motor industry. I’ve not had a drink for more than 16 months. I am determined to continue developing my career now that I’m getting the support I need.”
Ronnie Wilson MBE, Chief Executive of First Step Trust, says:
“Laura’s story shows how severe and enduring mental health problems can impact on a person’s life. It is a cruel illness that affects the person concerned and everyone around them. I have the utmost respect for Laura and others who, despite numerous setbacks, have kept on going. FST will do everything we can to help Laura succeed. I would also like to thank the Palmer Foundation for their support.”
2026: Update
Since the publishing of her story, Laura has reached the following remarkable achievements:
- Level 2 Diploma in Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair
- Qualified Portable Appliance Tester (PAT Testing)
- City & Guilds Level 2 Certificate of Competence in the Safe Use of Abrasive Wheel Machines
- 5 Years of Sobriety
[On behalf of First Step Trust, congratulations to Laura on the above milestones and career achievements!]