I’m a local Mum and have lived in East Dulwich for 17 years.  I’m also the founder and director of Therapy Links UK CIC, a not-for-profit social enterprise offering affordable speech & language therapy, occupational therapy, and physiotherapy to children and young people locally.

What brought you here?

I moved here in 2008 when I moved in with my partner.  I’m originally from Scotland and moved to London in 1998 for university and never left!

What do you most value about the area/street you live in?

Community spirit! We’re friends with our neighbours and know many on our street – not always the case in London.  A strong sense of community is part of the driving force behind Therapy Links UK and I feel lucky to live in such a vibrant area.  The amenities and transport links are great too!!

What’s the one thing you couldn’t do without?

Probably my kettle….for the steady stream of coffees I have across the day.

Describe your perfect Saturday

A lie-in to recover from early mornings during the week, breakfast in bed made by someone else, then a walk along the Southbank with the family, followed by dinner and the theatre.

Where’s your favourite place to walk?

Locally, it’s Peckham Rye for a dog walk. Camber Sands beach in East Sussex is perfect for a long, sunny, cold and windy stroll.  But for me, a Glaswegian born and bred, nothing beats the breathtaking scenery of Loch Lomond or the Cairngorms in Scotland – absolutely stunning!

Coffee or tea? Where?

Coffee always……. I love the coffee at Oru on Lordship Lane, and my son swears by the decaf mochas at Hop Burns and Black.

The best meal I’ve ever had..

We recently went for dinner at Brunswick House in Vauxhall, quirky décor, lovely staff and every single thing we ordered was really exceptional. Can’t wait to go back!

Cafe, pub or bar?

I love a Sunday pub roast, but right now, my go-to for catching up with friends over wine is Drop Dulwich on Melbourne Grove. The staff are friendly and helpful.

When I want to relax…

Nothing beats snuggling up on the sofa with the dog, a glass of wine, a good book and a hot water bottle!!!!

If money was no object….

That’s easy…..Therapy Links wouldn’t need to exist because children and young people would get the support they need when they need it and everyone would benefit as a result.

The book I’m reading at the moment..

“Brother. Do. You. Love. Me.” by Manni and Reuben Coe. It’s a poignant memoir written by two brothers—one with Downs Syndrome, and the other who has been his carer at key points over his lifetime. It explores their relationship as they navigate adulthood, the care system, and advocating for each other. It deeply resonates on so many levels with my experience with many of the families I work with.

www.therapy-links.co.uk