Tina’s Journey - from outsider to inclusion

When Tina moved to the area, she was looking for a fresh start.

She had been unable to continue living in her hometown of Leicester following the traumatic loss of her cousin, to whom she had been very close. Moving away gave Tina the opportunity to create some distance from the memories and experiences that had become difficult to live with.

However, life since moving has brought its own challenges. Tina has experienced significant problems with her rented accommodation, including mould, difficulties with her landlord and issues with neighbours. She would love to find a permanent home of her own in the local area, but has found the process of buying a house increasingly difficult.

Tina also experiences mobility difficulties, which can make everyday life more challenging. At home, she lives with her 33-year-old son, who has his own mental health difficulties and can sometimes be difficult to live with. With so many pressures surrounding her, Tina can often find it difficult to find space for herself.

Her one-to-one walks with Tracks&Dales have provided exactly that.

Each month, Tina has something positive to look forward to. Getting outdoors gives her an opportunity to step away from the difficulties at home and in her wider life, while spending time somewhere peaceful and away from the pressures she is experiencing.

The one-to-one nature of the walks has been particularly important to Tina. She feels safe and comfortable during the sessions and knows that she can talk openly without fear of judgement. Having someone listen to her and provide a safe space to express how she is feeling allows Tina to work through some of the challenges she is facing.

The walks also give Tina the opportunity to gain perspective. Away from the immediate pressures of her housing situation, family life and the uncertainty around her future, she has time to reflect on where she is now and what she wants for herself.

For Tina, the walks are not about solving everything at once. They provide a regular point of stability—something positive in her month and a space where she can feel heard, supported and safe.

Through Tracks&Dales, Tina is discovering the value of having time that is dedicated to her wellbeing. The combination of nature, movement and one-to-one support gives her the opportunity to pause, breathe and look at her circumstances from a different perspective.

And sometimes, having somewhere safe to talk and something positive to look forward to can make all the difference.