Becky came to YMCA shortly after the start of the pandemic in early 2020, following a particularly difficult period in her life. She had been working and living in a local pub, but difficult living conditions meant it was no longer suitable. Prior to this, she had been evicted from her previous flat due to rent arrears, which had built up after the death of her former partner and a period of struggling with anxiety and her mental health.
With the guidance of her support worker, Becky began to rebuild her life. Her mental health gradually improved, she started to regain her confidence and began looking for work.
Just a few weeks later, in June 2020, Becky was involved in a serious accident that would have a long-term impact on her life. While travelling in a borrowed van to collect a second-hand coffee table for her flat, the vehicle suddenly caught fire and exploded. The driver was able to escape quickly, but Becky’s seatbelt became jammed, leaving her trapped inside. As flames spread through the van, the last thing Becky remembers is raising her hands to protect her face.
After losing consciousness, Becky was rescued by a neighbour who had seen the incident from their window. Acting quickly, he ran to the scene, smashed the window, freed her from the seatbelt, and pulled her from the vehicle – ultimately saving her life.
Paramedics and an air ambulance arrived swiftly and did everything possible to limit the impact of the burns before transferring Becky to the specialist burns unit at Broomfield Hospital in Chelmsford. She was placed in an induced coma for two weeks. Becky has no memory of her time in intensive care, but she has seen photos of the serious burns to her hands and face.
After a further two weeks on a hospital ward, Becky began her long recovery, supported closely by her mum and her support worker. Together, they provided consistent emotional and practical support as Becky navigated ongoing hospital appointments, multiple operations, and the challenges of rebuilding her life.
Despite everything she had been through, Becky remained determined to move forward. Once she felt ready, she began looking for volunteering opportunities. After completing barista training with staff, she started volunteering in the café, making drinks for a group running martial arts sessions at YMCA Dartford.
Becky quickly became a key part of the team and played a pivotal role in helping to get the Dartford café back up and running after its closure during the pandemic. When it reopened, she was offered paid employment and became a familiar and friendly face to residents, members, and visitors.
With a steady income and ongoing support with money management, Becky was able to pay off the arrears from her previous tenancy. Although she had also fallen into arrears with her YMCA tenancy following the accident, she has since cleared this and is now debt-free.
In 2025, the café was unfortunately no longer viable and had to close, which meant Becky lost her job. However, on her final day in the café – while saying goodbye to colleagues and receiving cards and thanks from those she had worked with – she was offered an alternative role as a part-time cleaner.
Since the café’s closure, Becky has continued to play an important role in supporting YMCA’s community groups. She now works with an Autism group, helping to create a safe, welcoming space where members can build confidence, enjoy their independence, and take part in everyday activities – her hot chocolates have become a firm favourite.
Becky is an asset to YMCA. Known for her friendly, bubbly personality, she is well liked by both residents and staff. Many residents relate to her lived experience, and she is widely admired for how far she has come since her accident. She is a positive role model within the YMCA community.
Reflecting on her journey, Becky said:“YMCA has supported me through every part of my journey – living, working and rebuilding my life after the accident. They believed in me, helped me heal, and gave me the chance to work with them. I don’t know where I would be without them.
YMCA gave me a second chance at one of my lowest points, and I will be forever grateful.”
Becky has now undergone five operations, with more to come, alongside ongoing laser treatment for her injuries. Despite this, she continues to look ahead and is now preparing for her next step towards independent living.
Becky’s story shows just how important consistent support can be. With the right support around her, she has been able to move forward from a period of crisis, rebuild her confidence, and develop the skills she needs to take the next steps towards an independent future.
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