Blogs & Stories
Explore our Peer Trainer stories, past college newsletters, and student stories.
Peer Trainer Stories
Vicky May
Our Peer Trainer Vicky May, talks about her journey from attending the college as a student to being recruited into her position as a Peer Trainer at the college.
Jenny Hargrave
Jenny explains her experience, both as a student and now a peer trainer with the Recovery College, plus talks about why it works.
I felt it was good for me and I feel I can explain to my patients how helpful it will be. Now I have been apart of it, I can bring it to my patients better.
The discussion made me realise there is more hope in my life than I had fully appreciated.
I find it encouraging to be in a group with fellow travellers on the road to recovery. Not alone in the journey.
Student Stories
A reflection on how meaningful growth starts with caring for our foundations. From setting boundaries and asking for help to resting, connecting with others and spending time in nature, small acts of self-care can create the conditions we need to grow and become more resilient.
Preparing the Soil
Emily
Bringing rhythm to the Summer Fair - Portsmouth Balata brought plenty of energy and colour to the Summer Fair at Stansted Park
The Sound of Drums
David
Seeds of Change is a reflection on hope, healing and the small choices that can help us grow. It explores compassion, connection and the importance of listening to those who feel unheard or vulnerable.
Through the metaphor of a garden, it reminds us that growth takes time - and that every day gives us another opportunity to begin again.
Seeds of Change
Emily
“I regularly take my two dogs to our local Chatty Bench in Basingstoke which is a legacy piece from the Baton of Hope last September - one of my dogs, Oslo is now registered as a PAT dog with Pets As Therapy, in hope to support more people.”
The Chatty Bench
Sophie
Pretty Seashell is the first poem I wrote and helped me through a tough and lonely time in my life. I still have the seashell that I picked up that day!
Pretty Seashell
Claire
“Each day I keep showing up, I feel stronger and more empowered, simply because I am still here.”
Hope, Optimism and Empowerment
Steffie
Vision boards serve as a gentle reminder that there are things to look forward to and dream about, even during difficult times. They help me to reconnect with my goals, both long-term and short-term.
Vision Boards
Charlotte
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