For 25 years, I served in the Metropolitan Police — a vocation rooted in wanting to make the world a safer place.

 

Working in a male‑dominated environment, I slowly lost parts of myself in a culture of misogyny and a long, quiet battle with my mental health.

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When I look back now, it hardly seems surprising that I became so unwell; 15 years serving on the Murder Squad, other postings investigating rape, child sex offences and as a surveillance officer and in witness protection, while defending myself from the toxic work culture, I was in a constant, exhausted state of fight or flight.

 

At the time, worn down by the labels applied to me as a woman, I was scared to speak out. Now, having trained extensively in Trauma Management, I stand up proudly in support of all victims of bullying, prejudice and those who have suffered trauma of any kind. 

 

I moved to Lincolnshire, away from the triggers of London life. Here, alongside traditional therapy for C-PTSD, anxiety and depression,  I was able to begin to find my own peace and healing through my horses, dogs, the land, and a supportive community.

 

As I became closer to nature, my fascination with the ancient, healing power of plants developed; studying, foraging and growing my own plants with which I create tinctures, balms and bespoke teas. 

 

When I was Head of Boarding at Lincoln Minster School, my focus shifted to creating a safe, happy home for children living away from their families, a place where they could feel held and build warm memories. Away from policing, I could embrace my inner child and I'm a firm believer in the power of play and wonder as a tool for learning and mental health safety. 

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A feeling was growing within me, that I wanted to share my experience and that same sense of peace, safety, and release with others, offering a space where people can gently come home to themselves. 

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I trained as a Circle Facilitator, with Gemma Brady of Sister Stories and was overwhelmed with the power of simply being heard. No opinions, no solutions, just the space to be, in community with others, safely. For the first time, I experienced what it felt like to be listened to without being fixed. 

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This led to further study in Equine Facilitated Therapy and a desire to combine the two, and pursue my dream of moving to Italy and creating an environment of love and healing for my community, animals and nature. 

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That dream is making steady progress; I hold space on my annual trip, while seeking the perfect location. Meanwhile, the soft, bucolic land in Lincolnshire provides an equally beautiful setting for my soul work.