Life through lens of Cov man
A COVENTRY man who couldn’t go outside for five years has shared his story on what got him out of the house and back into his community.
Neil Catley was born in Coventry and has always admired the character and features of the city.
However due to a crippling fear of leaving the house, known as agoraphobia, Neil was unable to get out and enjoy the city sights he loved so much.
But a genius idea from Neil’s mum Mary gave Neil an opportunity to leave the house for the first time after five years.
She simply bought him a camera.
The move had such an impact on his physical and mental health that Neil decided to set up Confidence Through Photography, a group for those who may struggle to get out due to social anxiety or other barriers.
Since the group was set up last year, it has grown to 12 members and has sparked a movement in the city, bringing together passionate and creative people to pursue something they enjoy.
For many, the group is not a solution but a coping mechanism, as Neil’s mum Mary Lodhi explains: “He still suffers, I have to accompany him when we go out but he is getting there.”
But she says that after Neil started getting out to take pictures every weekend, he managed to look at getting a role that would help with his employment, and also his recovery.
“He got a voluntary job taking pictures for Warwickshire Wildlife Trust and that’s how he started out.”
Word soon spread of Neil’s talent, and Playwrights cafe in
Coventry city centre asked if they could use his photographs as part of their refurbishment.
Anyone now enjoying a meal or a hot drink in the cafe can do so surrounded by Neil’s art.
The medieval area of Coventry is particularly significant for Neil: “Bayley Lane is my favourite lane in Coventry because of the architecture and the lights. When I’m stressed and anxious, I go out and take pictures in the area. It’s something I’ve been doing for a few years now.
“I’m more talkative now, I wouldn’t talk to anybody before.”
Neil’s photography Facebook page has a strong following, with a loyal community commenting on how powerful his work is.
Margaret Parkinson said: “Your pics make us see the places as whole. Things we don’t notice normally. Our
Cathedral is not just a church with a spire, that round building on the side is beautiful in itself, as are many others you have made us aware of.”
Su Haywood said: “I don’t live in Cov any more but love seeing your photos .... and how you manage to sidetrack all the negativity I read, l hope you continue with the photos as they really are inspiring.”
On a photo of the Golden Cross pub on Bayley Lane, Steph Hill commented: “Very atmospheric, love the angry looking clouds.”
Members of the group also spoke to the Telegraph on how it has helped them navigate challenging times in their lives.
Carl Booth, who has been a member for six months, said: “After I lost my wife, I developed a difficulty with going outside. But I got chatting to Neil on Facebook, which forced me out of the house to the photography meet ups.
Very often I don’t want to come, but I know I must.”
It is this sense of accountability that has helped foster such a thriving community, and you don’t have to be an expert snapper to join the group as the 75-year-old explains.
“I just use a cheap camera that I picked up, and also use my iPhone and iPad to edit.”
Neil emphasises that everyone is welcome, regardless of ability.
“We have an hour before we go out and take photos so that members can chat and get to know each other, and you can also chat to us online before you come.”
And if you’re still unsure, a review on Neil’s Facebook page might just make your mind up for you. It reads: “A fantastic group that are very welcoming, open and friendly. Everyone shares their interest of photography and my son and I love attending the chats and tours taking photos. My son and I were completely new to photography but Neil and the group welcomed us and have been amazing with their hints and tips and sharing experience. Neil puts so much into the group and is always ready to share ideas and his expertise. “We really appreciate the effort that goes into running the group and events and cannot recommenced CTP enough.”
Through something as simple as photography, Neil has managed to create a conversation among people that may have never met. He has partnered with MIND Coventry , which has provided some funding for the group, and hopes that in the future they can put on a public exhibition.
He’s got an amazing eye for the world around him - and now everyone can enjoy the view.