Hi my name is Penelope. I started my journey with Options in 2011 but had received support prior to that with another agency. This wasn’t working for me so me and my family looked for a change. At this same time, I moved into my first flat on my own, well not completely as Zac my cat came too.

I grew in confidence living on my own and I got to meet new people, and both try new things and do things for myself.

I had always enjoyed being around people but was too shy to take the lead in a group. This all changed when I started going to People’s First after meeting some new people who were already active members.

My confidence grew, and this helped me want to get more involved. I soon became the President of our Marlborough division and then progressed to be Top of the South President.

Wow now I have just been voted National Chairperson. I feel honored that I have been chosen for the role and confident that I can do a really good job.

This all started with little steps and with my support encouraging me to speak out and say what I think, what I want and what I feel.

Now look at me…….I can do whatever I want.