Who We Are

Sisters of Support was founded in June 2021 by Amy Turner and Carrie Atkinson, after they recognised a gap in mental health support for women in their local community. Based in Newton Aycliffe, the group was born out of personal experience and a shared vision to create a safe, peer-led environment where women could talk openly and support each other through mental health struggles and the everyday pressures of life.

We are dedicated to helping women aged 18 and over find a space where they can share their thoughts, fears, and concerns about their mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing — without judgment. Through our groups, we promote a culture of listening, understanding, and empowerment.

Our Mission

• Promote Emotional Wellbeing: Provide safe, supportive spaces for women to share experiences, resources, and coping strategies.
• Provide Practical Support: Assist women facing challenges such as domestic violence, trauma, or social isolation by connecting them with relevant networks and services.
• Build Community: Organise social events, group activities, and peer-led support to reduce loneliness and strengthen bonds among women.
• Collaborate with Partners: Work alongside local businesses, services, and community organizations to tailor support for every woman who joins us.

We want to remind women that it’s good to talk — but it’s even better to feel truly heard. Sometimes, just getting things off your chest is a powerful therapy. Feeling understood and supported can be the first step toward healing.

#WeARElistening
Because every woman deserves to be heard.

(Sisters of Support follows strict policies to ensure safety and wellbeing, including safeguarding, equality, health and safety, and GDPR compliance. We are not a substitute for medical or clinical care but always signpost to professional help where needed.)

Our Growth & Impact

2021–2023: Laying the Foundations

2024: A Year of Growth and Recognition

2024 was a transformative year for Sisters of Support. In July, we officially became a Community Interest Company (CIC) — a milestone that has strengthened our ability to access funding and expand our impact.

We also launched our first major awareness campaign, #WeARElistening, in June 2024 — a powerful reminder that women often mask their emotions in the name of survival. The campaign encourages open conversations and reminds women that they are not alone.

We welcomed our first corporate partner, Perfect Care, whose ongoing advice and practical support have been invaluable. Throughout 2024, we received generous donations from local businesses, community groups, and individuals who share our mission. Their support has enabled us to keep offering free, welcoming spaces where women can connect, share, and heal together.

2025: Building Connections and Community

In 2025, Sisters of Support continues to grow from strength to strength. Responding to rising demand, we’re opening a second Newton Aycliffe group at Gilpin Court, giving more women access to peer-led emotional support in a trusted environment.

We’re also developing activity-based wellbeing groups, offering creative and social ways for women to connect — from mindfulness and crafts to community walks and choir sessions.

Beyond our weekly groups, we’ve proudly taken part in a range of community events and collaborations, including:

• Mental Health Awareness Week community walks and wellbeing fairs
• International Women’s Day celebrations with inspiring talks, creative stalls, and activities
• Durham Mental Health and Wellbeing Festival, showcasing our work and connecting with local providers
• Community choir performances bringing joy and connection to local events
• Craft and mindfulness pop-ups in partnership with libraries and community centres
• Collaborations with groups like Men’s Shed, local foodbanks, and Active Durham

These events highlight our deep commitment to connection, wellbeing, and inclusion — reaching women not just in our groups, but throughout the heart of our communities.

Sisters Of Support would like to ask that you check on your female friends, give them the space and comfort to open up to you and let’s get as many women in County Durham as possible to say #WeARElistening. The future is bright, Sisters of Support hope to go from strength to strength. We would love to open more groups in more areas and help more women across the county and country, but we can only do this with more support from volunteers and fundraising. Who knows today County Durham tomorrow the World?

Looking Ahead: Our Future Plans

The future for Sisters of Support is bright. We are committed to expanding our impact and ensuring our model of peer support reaches even more women. Our upcoming goals include:

• Opening a new group in Darlington, offering peer-led support in a new community
• Expanding into additional areas across County Durham and the North East
• Developing peer mentor and training programmes for women who have benefited from our support, empowering them to help others
• Introducing family-inclusive wellbeing sessions to promote intergenerational understanding and resilience
• Strengthening partnerships with local health providers, community organisations, and commissioners
• Securing sustainable funding to ensure all sessions remain free and accessible

Our vision is simple but powerful — to ensure every woman feels seen, heard, and supported, and that no one faces life’s challenges alone. With the dedication of our volunteers, partners, and community, Sisters of Support will continue to grow — empowering women, strengthening communities, and creating a brighter, kinder future for all.