Image & Video Gallery

Meet Hayley, one of our lovely clients at our Alsager Supported Living.

Hayley speaks about her journey to ISL, how she finds living in her service, and offers some beautiful advice to others struggling with their mental health. "It does get better!"

Are you interested in working with clients like Hayley to make a real difference in a mental health support setting?

Take a look at our latest vacancies: https://www.isl-org.uk/our-people/work-for-us/

0

Simon’s journey is one of resilience, progress and hope.

Originally from Hull, Simon moved into ISL’s Leeds supported living service and, after making remarkable progress, has recently transitioned into a Step Down service - a significant step towards greater independence.

Now celebrating one year of sobriety, Simon speaks candidly about his lifelong struggle with amphetamine addiction, the challenges he faced, and how the right support helped him rebuild his life. He also shares powerful advice for anyone currently experiencing addiction, offering encouragement that change is possible.

Known for his humour and positivity, Simon is always eager to get involved in activities across our Leeds services, bringing laughter wherever he goes. His personality shines throughout this video - especially when he reminds us that:

"Being a practical joker is one of the happiest times in my life."

Watch Simon’s inspiring story and see how far he’s come.

Looking to really make a difference working with clients like Simon? Take a look at our latest roles here: https://www.isl-org.uk/our-people/work-for-us/

0

Meet Ty and Luke, our brilliant twins from Middlewich 👬

This pair are an incredibly funny duo who never fail to bring a smile to your face. In this video, Ty and Luke chat about the support they receive at ISL, sharing how it helps them day to day and builds their confidence and independence.

They also talk through some practical, real-life scenarios – including what it might be like to work as a support worker themselves… with a very Ty and Luke answer thrown in for good measure!

Sit back, enjoy the laughs, and hear their story in their own words.

Looking to really make a difference working with clients like Ty and Luke? Take a look at our latest vacancies here: https://www.isl-org.uk/our-people/work-for-us/

0

Our Middlewich client Adam decided to build his very own Tiki Bar from scratch in his garden - despite never having done woodwork before!

From the sturdy wooden build to the brilliant neon Tiki sign, this project shows just how powerful it can be to step outside your comfort zone. Adam talks us through his process so far - and next up is a straw-style Tiki roof 🌴

We’re so proud of the confidence, creativity and determination he’s shown on this project and look forward to sharing the finished bar soon!

#tikibar #homebar #newskills #woodworking #building

0

Coach Sean popped into our Crewe Service to chat all things New Year’s resolutions with Susie, one of our brilliant clients, alongside Emma, Deputy Service Manager.

Susie shared her goal to quit smoking in the New Year - a decision she’s making to protect her health after losing her partner to a smoking-related illness.

As always, there were plenty of laughs along the way (including Susie’s suggestion for Sean’s own resolution… 😂), but the conversation came back to what really works: small, manageable changes.

Together, they agreed that reducing gradually, week by week, feels like the most realistic and supportive plan - and Coach Sean will be back in the New Year to check in and see how both Susie and Emma are getting on.

We’re wishing Susie all the very best on her journey and can’t wait to see the progress ahead 💪✨

#NewYearsResolutions #SmallSteps #CreweService #SupportMatters #HealthGoals

0

This video features a powerful piece written and read by Jade, one of our clients who attends a weekly wellbeing peer-support group "Battle Scars"

Her poem reflects her journey, the challenges she’s faced, and the strength she’s found through connection, compassion, and a safe place to heal.

We hope her words offer comfort and remind others that they are not alone.
(If you or someone you know needs support, please reach out to a local mental health helpline.)


Battle Scars – by Jade

When I first came I was quiet, unsure
carrying hurt I'd hidden before.
The kind of pain you don't always see,
but it was weighing heavily on me.

Then Thursday came, a gentle start
a room full of warmth that softened my heart.
Smiles that didn't need to ask "why?"
just "how are you?" and mean it honestly.

There's laughter that lifts the darkest of days
and comfort in words that softly stay
I've met people who've walked through storms,
yet shine in so many forms.

Sometimes we talk, sometimes we just sit
but in those moments I feel I fit.
No masks, no fear of what they'll see
just a place where I can be me.

The volunteers they give so much light,
holding space when I can't see right.
Their patience, their kindness, their gentle tone
make me feel I'm not alone.

There are days I stumble, nights I fall
but Thursdays remind me I can stand tall.
For every scar that tells my past
there's hope now growing strong, fast.

It's not about fixing or being "fine"
it's knowing this journey is truly mine.
Battle Scars showed me I still belong
that even in weakness I can be strong.

Now when I walk through that door each week
I feel the calm that I came to seek.
It's more than a group, it's a safe kind space
a little light, a gentle embrace.

So here's to the people who stay and care,
who show up simply to be there.
You've helped me believe I'll make it through,
and from my heart – I thank you.

0

In this inspiring client story, Jamie shares how taking up boxing has helped him build confidence, routine, and focus — with the support of his support worker, Mo. 🥊

Together, they’ve shown how finding the right activity and encouragement can make a huge difference to someone’s wellbeing and independence.

Watch as Jamie and Mo talk about their journey, the progress Jamie has made, and how their shared passion for boxing has motivated them both.

💪 Keywords: support worker, mental health support, client journey, personal growth, confidence building, boxing motivation, supported living, empowerment, wellbeing, community support.

0

CR’s Story – Creative Journeys 2025 | ISL Art Show at Saul Hay Gallery

Meet CR, the Overall Winner of this year’s ISL Creative Journeys Art Show at Saul Hay Gallery, Manchester.

Her mixed media painting carries a powerful message:

“This piece is about not bottling up your emotions — learning to talk instead of self-harming.”

In this emotional video, CR shares the story behind her artwork and what winning means to her. She also opens up about overcoming agoraphobia and how, with the support of Independence Support Ltd (ISL), she has gained the confidence to travel to Manchester to see her art displayed in a professional gallery for the very first time.

Her journey is an incredible reminder of how creativity, courage, and the right support can help people rediscover purpose and pride.

🖼️ Art that heals. Stories that inspire.

#ISL #CreativeJourneys #ArtForMentalHealth #SaulHayGallery #DisabilityInclusion #RecoveryThroughArt #AgoraphobiaAwareness #MentalHealthRecovery #CreativityForWellbeing

0

Floyd tells us about his journey before and after becoming a client at Independence Support Ltd.

0

After serving 12 years in the Army, Saul discovered a new passion during his transition to civilian life — mental health support.

Starting as a Bank Support Worker, Saul joined Independence Support (ISL) determined to use both his lived experience and professional background to make a difference. Just 18 months later, he is now Deputy Service Manager at our Middlewich Supported Living services.

In this video, Saul shares his journey, what inspired him to move into mental health, and why supporting people to improve their mental and physical wellbeing means so much to him.

At ISL, we believe in growing our own leaders and creating real career progression opportunities in supported living and mental health services.

If you’re looking for a rewarding career in mental health support, take a look at our current vacancies here: https://www.isl-org.uk/our-people/work-for-us/

Mental health careers, supported living jobs, deputy service manager, career progression in care, army to civilian career, ADHD awareness, mental health support worker, UK care jobs

0

Ellie joined ISL after studying mental health at university, an opportunity she saw to gain more first hand experience, and putting her skills to good use.

Watch as Ellie talks about her day to day as a Support Worker at our Crewe Service and what she enjoys most!

Looking to really make a difference in a fulfilling new role? Take a look at our latest vacancies here: https://www.isl-org.uk/our-people/work-for-us/

Song: Peaceful Corporate by Stock-Waves
Music provided by https://protunes.net
Video Link: https://bit.ly/41O2NAT

0

In this inspiring client story, Jamie shares how taking up boxing has helped him build confidence, routine, and focus — with the support of his support worker, Mo. 🥊

Together, they’ve shown how finding the right activity and encouragement can make a huge difference to someone’s wellbeing and independence.

Watch as Jamie and Mo talk about their journey, the progress Jamie has made, and how their shared passion for boxing has motivated them both.

💪 Keywords: support worker, mental health support, client journey, personal growth, confidence building, boxing motivation, supported living, empowerment, wellbeing, community support.

0

Meet Mo – our incredible Service Manager at Chester!
After starting out in Rapid Response, Mo joined the Chester team to work more closely with clients on their recovery journeys. His passion and creativity shine through in everything he does – from introducing boxing sessions that are helping clients grow stronger physically and mentally, to stepping into the ring himself earlier this year and raising over £1,000 for our charity partner, Live Cheshire.

Mo brings energy, dedication and joy to the team every day – and we’re so proud to have him leading the way 👏💙

#TeamISL #RecoveryJourney #BoxingForWellbeing #CharityChampion

0

When someone is in mental health crisis, every moment matters. Our Rapid Response workers are there to make sure patients feel safe, supported and cared for while waiting for the next step in their journey.

From offering a reassuring presence in A&E, to supporting staff on acute wards, and escorting patients safely between hospital and various mental health establishments.

This reel shows a glimpse of what it means to stand alongside someone in their most vulnerable moments.

#MentalHealthMatters #RapidResponse #HereForYou #NHS #MentalHealthSupport #MentalHealth #MentalHealthCrisis #Support #IndependenceSupport

0

We’re incredibly excited to announce that Andrew Small, T33 Paralympic gold medallist, has joined our Crewecial Café team!

Through his sporting journey, Andrew has shown incredible resilience, determination, and understanding of overcoming life’s challenges. His experiences give him a unique ability to connect with and support people from all walks of life, including those facing varying mental health challenges.

We can’t wait to work together to enable more people to live independent lives in the community.

0

The ISL Rapid Response Team took on the challenge of climbing Mount Snowdon – the highest peak in Wales. The team raised over £1,000 for local charity partner LIVE! Cheshire!

Route - Llanberis Path and descending via the Pyg Track.

#charitywalk #mountsnowdon

0

Catch-up on our Colleague Journey series; showcasing short stories from ISL support workers and colleagues.

#supportworker #supportworkers #supportworkerlife

0

Huge congratulations to MO for winning his boxing fight and raising over £1,000 for local charity partner Live! Cheshire! An incredible achievement both in and out of the ring—well done, Mo! 🥊

More to follow later this week on our blog with more photos and video footage of the exciting event!

0