Your Communities

I actively lead two crafting communities: the 'NEXT craft club' within work and a monthly craft club outside of work.

What makes this community feel so supportive is the shared passion for crafting. Being surrounded by like-minded people with similar hobbies creates a space where we can freely discuss ideas, proudly share our completed projects in a 'show and tell' format, and engage in open conversations without the worry of dismissive 'banter' from those who don't share our interests.

Being part of these communities has positively impacted my mental wellbeing significantly. This hobby is a fantastic way for me to relax and unwind, effectively taking away the stresses that daily life can bring.

I am part of three internal employee communities: Able at NEXT (the disability community), the Menopause support group and the Endometriosis support group.

What makes these communities feel so supportive is the open and accepting environment they foster. You can genuinely talk about anything, share how you're feeling without reservation and the community members consistently offer support and advice.

Being part of these communities has had a profound positive impact on my mental wellbeing. Within Able, I feel I can truly be my authentic self, and I love having the opportunity to chat with others while working. Living with a disability can be incredibly isolating, and knowing there's a community of people who understand and are going through similar experiences is a massive help. We all genuinely support each other. Similarly, the Menopause and Endometriosis groups have provided invaluable support during what would otherwise be a very difficult time in my life.

The community I feel deeply connected to within work is my fabulous PA team in Tech.

What makes this team feel so incredibly supportive is the rare and special bond we share. They aren't just colleagues, they are truly like my best friends. I have complete trust in each of them and know I can confide in them without reservation, feeling completely safe to do so.

This sense of community has had a profound and positive impact on my mental wellbeing, especially during a challenging period. While I've managed my mental health since the age of 16 with various tools, the experience of having my two children and then navigating my partner's cancer diagnosis late last year (thankfully now in remission) left me feeling very disconnected and constantly in fight-or-flight mode.

My team was instrumental in helping me through this. They consistently listened without judgment, took the time to genuinely check in on me, and wholeheartedly supported me on my journey to rediscovering my spark. I honestly don't know what I would have done without these incredible ladies!

Outside of work, a key community I'm part of is my local running club, Huncote Harriers. Within the club, I'm actively involved in organising activities and leading running groups. 

What makes Huncote Harriers such a supportive community is the inclusive atmosphere where everyone, regardless of their running ability, offers encouragement and camaraderie.

For me, this club is my go to place to enjoy activities with others in a supportive environment that's completely separate from the everyday stresses of work and family life. It's my reset button, reminding me of what's truly important, friendship and mutual support, with the added benefit of staying fit and healthy.

I genuinely believe that without this release and the strong sense of community it provides, I would have struggled significantly during tough times