At Northern Healthcare, every journey in supported living looks different; progress is personal, and recovery is rarely linear. For Rio, a 25-year-old non-binary person supported at Olton Grange, that journey has been one of rediscovering confidence, purpose, and self-acceptance. With steady encouragement from the team and opportunities to grow at their own pace, Rio’s story highlights what person-centred recovery looks like in practice.
“Six years ago, at 19, I faced a serious decline in my mental health. I felt isolated, lonely, and desperate to be heard.”
In October 2019, Rio was discharged from hospital and moved into supported living for the first time. It was a new chapter, but not an easy one.
“I spent nearly four years there. Looking back, it felt like I was stuck. The COVID-19 pandemic paused life for everyone, but for me, it also froze my personal progress. I was too scared to move forward in case I caused more damage to myself.”
Although Rio tried different activities such as online college courses, swimming, and new routines, nothing seemed to fit. Still, some vital steps happened during that time: two years of therapy brought self-understanding, including realising they are bisexual and non-binary.
“Even with these discoveries, I often felt like a hollow shell.”
Three years into supported living, Rio’s antidepressant was changed, marking a real turning point.
“It finally clicked. I felt more like myself again.”
With new clarity, Rio began taking small but important steps forward. An occupational therapist encouraged them to enroll on a six-week RSPCA course on animal welfare.
“Despite my anxiety and lack of confidence, I attended every session. Completing it gave me my first big sense of accomplishment in years.”
Realising they needed a more autism-aware and recovery-focused environment, Rio decided it was time for a fresh start. They moved to Olton Grange in 2023, part of Northern Healthcare’s supported living services in the Midlands.
At first, old habits crept back in.
“I fell into the same trap – trying to force big changes, like job searching before I was ready. Eventually, I realised I needed smaller, more manageable steps.”
With patient, consistent support from the team, Rio began rebuilding confidence and stability at their own pace.
Everything began to change when Rio discovered Newlands Farm, a community project that offers volunteering opportunities for people managing mental health challenges.
“Since March, I’ve been attending the farm where people with different mental health challenges come together to build skills and support each other. I started two days a week, and by September, I’d built up to three.”
The farm quickly became a safe and meaningful space.
“It’s given me structure and purpose, a real sense of being useful, new friendships, and a place where I can be myself. My self-hatred has started to fade into the background.”
Team Leader Natalie Moon has seen Rio’s progress first-hand since their move to Olton Grange.
“When Rio first came to Olton, they were quite reserved and unsure of what they wanted to do. Over time, they began reaching out for the support they needed.”
Natalie describes how Rio initially worked with a staff member named Emily to create a CV and explore job opportunities. When Rio decided formal employment wasn’t the right step yet, the team helped them explore volunteering, leading to the connection with Newlands Farm.
“Rio has really flourished since starting at the farm. They engage well with staff and other people we support, get involved in activities, and often help others, whether it’s baking, crocheting or crafts. They’ve become a real mentor figure.”
Natalie adds that Rio feels supported by the Olton team:
“Rio has said that they feel staff have really helped them; by attending appointments, having one-to-one chats, and helping with practical things like CV writing. They’ve built a strong rapport with both staff and peers.”
Rio continues to volunteer three days a week and plans to maintain that stability before considering their next steps.
“I’ve always felt behind because I didn’t finish A-levels or go to university. But I’ve realised I took a different path, the long way round, and it fits me.”
“I can’t say, ‘If I can make it, anyone can.’ Everyone’s journey is their own. But I am hopeful for those struggling, and you are in my thoughts.”
Rio’s story is one of patience, resilience, and personal discovery, supported by a team that recognised when to step in and when to step back. From arriving quiet and unsure to becoming a mentor to others, Rio’s journey reflects what person-centred, recovery-focused support can achieve.
