Strength in Connection: A Path to Wellbeing
Sophie recently moved back into her own flat after spending several years in a supported living service run in partnership with Penumbra, providing peer support. Her story is a powerful testament to the impact of peer work and person-centred support in recovery and wellbeing. Grateful for the care and encouragement she received, Sophie’s experience shows just how transformative compassionate, lived-experience-based support can be.
During her time with Penumbra, Sophie faced immense personal challenges. She was diagnosed with cancer—a frightening and life-altering event for anyone. However, Sophie approached her illness with an extraordinary sense of positivity and resilience. Supported every step of the way, not only did she go into remission—she fully recovered. Throughout her treatment and healing process, Sophie continued to meet regularly with her Penumbra peer workers. These meetings, often over coffee, offered consistent emotional support and understanding from people who had their own experiences of recovery. This peer connection helped her stay grounded, hopeful, and connected during a very difficult period. These relationships were more than supportive; they were transformative. They helped her see that recovery is not just possible but achievable, even when life presents profound obstacles.
As if overcoming a major illness wasn’t enough, Sophie also had to cope with the heartbreaking loss of her husband during this time. Once again, Penumbra’s team and partners were by her side. She describes feeling genuinely supported throughout her grief—never judged or rushed, just given space, care, and kindness. Peer workers played a vital role here too, sharing their own stories of coping with loss, offering empathy without pity, and gently encouraging her through one of the most painful chapters of her life.
Sophie’s journey captures the essence of what makes peer work so effective: compassion, relatability, consistency, and a focus on strengths.
Sophie’s story is one of personal resilience, but it is also a story of the impact of meaningful, ongoing support. She credits Penumbra with helping her rebuild her confidence, improve her overall wellbeing, and rediscover a sense of self-worth. She says she now feels “better about herself,” and that shift in self-perception is no small achievement—it is the result of steady, relational support and an empowering environment that recognises every person as the expert in their own life.
There were many moments of joy and connection during her time in supported living, too. Sophie fondly remembers the group day trips the team organised, including outings on the minibus to South Queensferry and Portobello. These trips were more than just a change of scenery—they were moments of laughter, companionship, and belonging. For someone recovering from trauma, illness, and grief, these social experiences were crucial in rebuilding a sense of community.
One of her favourite memories was visiting the Christmas market with her Penumbra key worker, where the group got to meet Santa’s elves—a light-hearted, festive experience that brought warmth and smiles to everyone involved. These kinds of activities highlight the holistic approach Penumbra takes to mental health support. It’s not just about managing symptoms; it’s about creating opportunities for connection, celebration, and shared joy.
Sophie also appreciated the smaller, everyday celebrations that made life in supported living feel special. Birthday parties, holiday gatherings, and other milestone events gave her and others a chance to mark progress, enjoy each other’s company, and feel part of a caring community. These moments, though seemingly simple, played a major role in boosting morale and fostering a sense of inclusion and purpose.
A passionate gardener, Sophie found particular joy in helping maintain the garden at the service alongside a volunteer. Gardening became a meaningful outlet—an activity that nurtured both her mind and her environment. This hands-on involvement not only supported her mental health but gave her a tangible way to give back and contribute to the shared space.
Now living independently again, Sophie is content and optimistic about the future. She continues to volunteer in the same garden she helped care for during her time in supported living—a gesture that shows just how strong her connection remains to the place and people who supported her. She is excited to start working on her own garden at her new home and looks forward to simple pleasures like paddling in Silverknowes.
Sophie’s journey captures the essence of what makes peer work so effective: compassion, relatability, consistency, and a focus on strengths. By supporting Sophie through serious illness, bereavement, and a transition back to independent living, Penumbra and its partners demonstrated the profound impact of recovery-focused care rooted in shared experience.
At the heart of Sophie’s success is not just her strength, but also the trust, empathy, and encouragement she received from people who truly understood what she was going through. Peer work helped her feel seen, heard, and capable again. Her story is a reminder that with the right support, recovery is not just possible—it can be empowering and life-affirming.
We are thrilled to see Sophie thriving and even more thrilled that she continues to be a part of the community she helped cultivate. Her journey is an inspiring example of how peer support can guide people through the most difficult times and help them reclaim joy, purpose, and independence.
Thank you, Sophie for sharing your incredible journey. You’re truly an inspiration for those accessing Penumbra services and those considering seeking support with us.
Read other inspiring stories, here: penumbra.org.uk/your-journeys
