'I'm feeling empowered to use my lived experience to help others' - the power of peer support to help people achieve their goals

When someone is faced with a life-altering diagnosis like Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), it can feel overwhelming, isolating, and without hope. For Karla, that was her reality - until she was referred to support networks within Pioneering Care Partnership (PCP). What followed was a powerful journey of trust and transformation. With tailored support from dedicated staff, she not only found the strength to rebuild her own life, but also discovered a passion for helping others facing similar struggles, leading to the creation of a much-needed FND Peer Support group in Chester-le-Street.

Karla in the middle after speaking at the PCP AGM 2025.

"When I was first referred to PCP's County Durham Resilience service by Talking Therapies, I was feeling really numb, suicidal, and I didn’t think anyone or anything could help me.

"From the beginning Suzi Rankin, Resilience Worker, truly listened to me. Her support was flexible, adaptable, and tailored to my needs. She gave me space to be open and honest about how I was really feeling. Over time, we built a solid foundation of trust - something that’s been hard for me since being diagnosed with FND. Suzi saw beyond my diagnosis and disability, and gave me hope for the future.

"As we continued working together, I shared my wish to use my lived experience to support other people with FND. I didn’t want anyone to have to go through it alone. Suzi connected me with Donna Sheavills, County Durham Resilience Project Lead, and Sophie Richardson from the PCP Local Lived Experience Team in Chester-le-Street.

"Through sharing my experiences with Sophie, I was given the opportunity to raise awareness of FND and its impact on mental health by speaking to GPs in Chester-le-Street. This helped boost my confidence and allowed me to build connections across the healthcare system.

"I was later invited to speak at a County Durham Resilience service team meeting, where I shared my story and helped raise further awareness of FND. As a result, Bobby Hewitson, Project Development Manager, provided funding to launch an FND Peer Support Group in Chester-le-Street for six months.

"The first group session took place in April 2025 with just three to four people attending. By June 2025, thanks to word of mouth, around 25 people came along or dropped in. The Chronicle newspaper has since covered the group in an article, helping to raise even more awareness, and I’ve had many people getting in touch as a result.

"This has shown just how great the need is for FND support, especially as more and more people are being diagnosed. I’m now working with Durham Community Action (DCA) to establish a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) and exploring funding opportunities to keep the group running beyond September 2025.

"Looking back, I’ve achieved things I never thought possible - increasing my confidence, gaining purpose, meaning, identity, and connection, and feeling empowered to use my lived experience to help others.

"I’m truly grateful for all the support I’ve received from PCP and look forward to continuing our work together."

Thank you to Karla for sharing her powerful and inspiring story. The FND Peer Support group perfect opportunity to get some support from people who live with FND, or family/carers who are looking some support or advice. The coffee morning's are the third Wednesday of every month until September from 11am to 1pm at Chester-le-Street Community Centre, 5 Newcastle Road, DH3 3TS.

Karla is also hosting a fun day next month to raise more funds for the group. The fun day is on Saturday 30th August 2025 at The Old English Pub, in Great Lumley from 1pm to 5pm. Enjoy a fantastic afternoon with a tombola, mystery bags, and a chance to win amazing prizes generously donated by local businesses, including gift vouchers and more. Don’t miss it it’s set to be a great community event. If you would like to donate or find out more information please contact karlarutherford86@gmail.com.