Adrienne’s story
Adrienne’s story Outside of my blog, I have been a featured writer/contributor for some organisations involved in mental health, and overall health and social care. One of which is the Humans of Scotland series for Alliance Scotland. After writing an opinion piece on Pro-Ana content for Alliance, I was contacted to be part of this series to talk about […]
Penumbra partners up with Aberdeen Cyrenians for new service
Penumbra teams up with Aberdeen Cyrenians for new service In Aberdeen, Penumbra colleagues recently teamed up with Cyrenians to offer innovative support to survivors of childhood abuse. ‘Strength for Tomorrow’ is a new service which will support adults who have experienced childhood abuse which continues to affect their lives today. The project, which is funded […]
Steven’s story
Steven’s story I’ve had an ongoing battle with drug use for over 20 years which led me down a dark path. I was in a place where I was miserable and I couldn’t see a way out. My mental health deteriorated so badly to a point where I frequently overdosed on drugs. I was desperate […]
Author donates book sales to Penumbra
Author donates sales of books to Penumbra We were thrilled when author and friend of Penumbra, Alan Ormiston, contacted us to say that he’s written a book of poetry with proceeds from its sale going to help our work in supporting 1800 adults and young people each week. Read more about Alan’s motivation for his […]
New self-harm support service for Dundee
New self-harm support service for Dundee We recently launched a new self-harm service in Dundee. It’s being funded by Inspiring Scotland as part of a Scotland wide initiative that brings together, and supports organisations to provide, a range of support services across communities. People can self-refer to the service and can also be referred by […]
Kristopher’s life changing #CycleForPenumbra
Kristopher’s life changing #CycleForPenumbra My name is Kristopher, I’m 20 years old, and born and raised in the granite city. I am attempting to cycle the distance of Britain (874 miles) in 15 days to raise money for the mental health charity, Penumbra. Also to raise awareness to the subject of mental health as a […]
Dave’s story
Dave’s story At times, people tell me they’re not creative, but I like to think we all are. I have never seen myself as someone who can paint or draw. But part of the ongoing See Me box-making project, I have tried both of these. 15 years ago, I would probably have politely declined the opportunity […]
Joining forces for Scotland’s mental health
Policy advocacy is a big part of Penumbra’s work in being a part of the public conversation around mental health and with the Scottish Parliament elections just around the corner, we’ve partnered up with some key players in Scotland’s mental health sector to form the Scottish Mental Health Partnership. Ahead of polling day, read our […]
Do we still need the anti-stigma movement? (spoiler: yes!)
Do we still need the anti-stigma movement? (spoiler: yes!) Campaigning for change is a tricky business. I say that because most regular campaigns have a neat timeline with a distinct end point and tangible goals. Achieving a cultural shift on the other hand takes time. It requires passion, persistence, and patience (alliteration not intended). The […]
Thanks for the journey, it’s been a privilege
Earlier this year I made a big decision. I announced my retirement from Penumbra. I have had the great honour of working for Penumbra for 30 years and of being Chief Executive for 22 of those years. I will be leaving at the end of September and our Board are currently advertising for my successor. […]