Aiming to provide help after divorce

Jan 5 2009 by Andrew Hirst, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

EVERYONE’S separation situation is different – so can a workshop really help?

Sarah, from Stratford, tried support from the DRW at a workshop in Barnt Green, near Birmingham, and says it turned her life around.

She went through two divorces and claims her attitude has been turned around by attending a Divorce Recovery Workshop last June.

She said: “Little did I guess it would change my way of thinking.

“Had I not attended the meetings I would still be the wounded person I was when I first walked into that hall last June.

“Two divorces have been traumatic and costly as well as difficult for my children and the further family members involved.”

She said being with other divorcees meant she could open up in a way she could not to friends or family.

“At the DRW, because of the intimate nature of the groups, I was able to look deeply at all aspects of my own life.

“It was the first time I faced my feelings of guilt, sorrow and helplessness caused by situations outside my control.

“Friends try to comfort you, but often they are couples in secure relationships, or are widowed.

“They could not look at divorce through the same pair of spectacles. It was such a relief to hear other divorcees talk about situations I could relate with.

“Their understanding and support has been the best back-up I have had. My group I now count as friends. It has changed my life.”