Shoulder to Shoulder by With-you
Welcome to Shoulder to Shoulder
Shoulder to Shoulder is a podcast about the power of peer support and lived experience, and what happens when people who've been through tough times use that experience to help others.
But what is peer support? It's simple: people who've faced their own challenges offer understanding, connection, and hope to others going through similar challenges. That's the meaning of peer support, and it's at the heart of everything we do.
In a world that can make us feel alone when we're struggling, this podcast is a reminder that connection changes everything.
I'm Cate Munro, and each episode I talk with people who've faced real challenges - mental health struggles, addiction, trauma, grief, life-changing moments - and who now stand shoulder to shoulder with others on their own journeys.
My guests include peer support workers, people running peer support groups, and individuals whose lived experience has become their greatest strength.
They share their stories honestly: what happened, what helped, and how peer support made a difference.
Whether you're a peer support worker, thinking about becoming one, part of a peer support group, or simply believe in the power of human connection and shared experience, there's something here for you.
Before you listen: This podcast explores personal stories of growth, mental health and resilience. Some episodes include descriptions of trauma and distress. Please trust your instincts and look after yourself - it's always okay to pause or come back another time.
Thank you for being here.
Find out more about With-you Consultancy at www.with-you.co.uk
Shoulder to Shoulder by With-you
EP 27: Belonging After Trauma: Emily Sole on Catastrophic Injury, Peer Support & Starting Again
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What happens when your life changes in an instant — and nothing feels familiar anymore?
In this moving episode of Shoulder to Shoulder, Cate speaks with Emily Sole, a trade union professional, trainer, and peer support volunteer, about her ongoing recovery following a catastrophic head-on collision in early 2024. Left with life-threatening injuries and facing a long, uncertain road ahead, Emily discovered the power of one-to-one peer support through Day One Trauma Support, a charity that helps people rebuild their lives after major physical trauma.
Emily opens up about how peer support gave her a place to belong at a time when she no longer recognised her own life. She shares how drawing on her professional skills in mentoring, coaching and advocacy helped her reconnect with her sense of identity, and how volunteering has become a vital part of her healing journey.
We discuss:
~The emotional and physical reality of surviving a traumatic injury
~How isolation and identity loss affect recovery
~Why peer support made the difference when everything else felt overwhelming
~Finding purpose and value after trauma
~What it means to be “at the beginning” of rebuilding your life
~The importance of connection, honesty — and small “glimmers” of hope
Whether you’re navigating recovery, supporting someone through trauma, or working in health or care services — this episode offers raw insight, resilience, and a powerful reminder of why peer support matters.
Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Show notes & resources:
With-you consultancy: www.with-you.co.uk
Day One Trauma Support: https://dayonetrauma.org/
Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
With-you consultancy: www.with-you.co.uk