Better Than Well: new free project to support people dealing with childhood trauma

Better Than Well is run by the charity, Link Living, and is based in the Together Levenmouth Hub in the High Street, Leven.

It launched a pilot project in the area last year, along with groups in Kirkcaldy and Dunfermline, and, with new funding secured, is running seven-week courses for people aged over 16.

Better Than Well is aimed at people affected by childhood trauma which can impact later in life.

It offers group sessions as well as one to one coaching, and the people at its helm stress it is a safe space for all who want it.

The project is run by peer workers Niclair Gilmour and Mariola Sztwiertnia, who are keen to promote its presence in the town to offer support to more local people.

The service aims to help people deal with the challenges they face today, and help them understand how childhood trauma can impact on their lives.

Niclair said: “It is a small informal group. You can join and go at your own pace. You decide how much you want to participate - if you want to sit and listen, that is absolutely okay. Everyone’s experience is respected.

“This is not doom and gloom talking about trauma. It is a place of safety and support, and helping to find positive mindsets. We never push anyone into sharing their stories. There is no requirement to talk about what has happened in the past. We focus on the here and now.” The courses last for seven weeks - with breaks between sessions - and before you join, there is an informal phone call to talk through a referral and check that the group feels right for you. The offer of a one to one meeting is also there if needed.

The group sessions explore trauma and stress, and how to understand it, and how trauma affects your responses. There are coping strategies to make people feel safer, and they also open the door to forging new connections and friendships.

“The group sessions can lead to transformative change,” said Niclair. “People can feel isolated, or be self isolated, and feel they have no hope in life going forward and suicide ideation comes in.

“Across the seven sessions they can get belief in themselves. - through the sessions they may start to look at studying or work, or simply have more hope.”

Simply meeting others can be a step forward.

“You meet and socialise with others who may have had similar experiences as you. People can forge connections and friendships,” said Niclair. “One to one sessions are more about the individual and that can mean more intensive coaching. In the group setting you take away the isolation - it isn’t just you.”

The group meets on a Thursday morning in The Hub, from 10:30am., running for 90 minutes.

There is a half hour opportunity before it starts for people to come along for a one to one chat, or who want to come early and get settled.

The group is peer lead - it is facilitated by people with lived experience, and the programme culminates with a chance to reflect on your individual journey, and outline further support if you need it.

“This group is about kindness, understanding and taking things one step at a time,” said Niclair. “You are welcome just as you are.”

> To find out more, visit www.linkliving.org.uk or email [email protected]