A BOURNEMOUTH woman who struggles with depression and severe mobility issues has been awarded a grant so she can use her love of baking to help improve her condition.

Following a car accident in 2008, Rebecca Read has to use a wheelchair and lost both her confidence and independence. She has constant pain in her back, hips, neck and shoulders and relies heavily on her husband, Steve.

After moving into an adapted bungalow, Rebecca rekindled her passion and talent for baking – a hobby which helps to combat the symptoms of her depression.

Steve applied for a personal grant from Engage Mutual as a surprise to pay for some baking and decorating courses which will develop Rebecca’s skills and give her an opportunity to socialise with others on the course.

Rebecca told Taste: “We’ve had a really tough few years. Since the car crash in 2008, life has been really difficult. Steve lost his job shortly after the car crash then my mum passed away in 2013, just over eight years since losing my dad, both at relatively young ages which, combined with my own health problems, has made it extremely hard to remain positive. I’m in a lot of pain and lost my motivation to interact with other people entirely.

“I absolutely love baking and our new home makes it easier for me to do it independently. It really impacts on my state of mind, with many positive benefits, including increased motivation. I want to improve my skills and explore my interest further, and without the personal grant, wouldn’t have had the opportunity to do so. It means so much to me and has given me a real purpose! I have already completed two courses, Christmas cake decorating and fashion statement flowers. I learned a number of new techniques and have met some lovely people too. I am starting the improvers and the Royal Icing as a hobby courses in February and I can’t wait!”

The Foundation has set aside £1m for the exclusive benefit for its customers to make their lives and their communities better. Since the launch of Foundation personal grants in 2014, Engage Mutual has made a positive difference to the lives of 135 customers.

Nigel Hunter, head of community at Engage said: “Rebecca and Steve have certainly faced a challenging few years and it’s understandable that they have found the circumstances very difficult. We’re really pleased to be able to help improve their situation in a small way, and hope that Rebecca’s health will benefit too.”