Harley is a young person who entered our Whatriggs service several years ago. She received support from the Assistant Manager at the time, Richard.
Harley: “It was my first time meeting someone that is so positive – that has stuck with me. If I need someone to build me up when I’m rock bottom, or if I need someone to cry on, I know Richard will give me a pep talk. One thing he told me since he first met me is ‘I’m bright, I’m clever, I’m capable and that’s the truth’. It does mean the world to me knowing that there’s someone that genuinely means that.”
Richard: “My first impression of Harley in Whatriggs was just a wee ball of energy. A young, vibrant woman that had appeared in our service.”
When Harley found out she was pregnant, Richard was there to give support.
Harley: “Richard told me I was going to be okay, and I was so resilient, and that was part of the reason I was able to go through my pregnancy.”
Lian joined the Whatriggs team and took over as Harley’s key worker. They developed a strong bond after Harley learned that Lian had also been a supported person at Blue Triangle when she was sixteen.
Lian: “First impressions of Harley was just – wow! She’s larger than life, she has an amazing personality. I was a staff member but Harley took me under her wing – she was always clued up about rules. I think we just clicked straight away.”
Harley: “It was really nice to have a keyworker that I could sit down with and go ‘I’m going through a rubbish time at the moment, this is what’s going on’ – and rather than someone telling me I’m fine, Lian could relate and say ‘You know what, this is a sad time and I know what it’s like.’ It was really refreshing to have someone understand, for the first time in a while.”
Thanks to the work of Whatriggs staff, Harley was able to move into her own place. She continues to receive ongoing support from Blue Triangle.
Lian: “When you need us, we’re here – you know that you belong.”
After being encouraged by Lian, Harley joined Blue Triangle’s Participation and Engagement Committee.
Harley: “I was anxious at first but everyone was very welcoming. I was able to put my own input into the meeting – not only about myself, but how things might be viewed by other supported people. It’s been interesting hearing about the plans for the future of Blue Triangle, and also the ideas from the other supported people in the room.”
In 2025, Harley’s dedication and passion were recognised nationally when she was awarded Runner-Up for Tenant of the Year at the TPAS Scotland Good Practice Awards. It’s a well-deserved recognition for someone who continues to use her voice and experience to make a difference for others.
Harley: “Both times that I left Blue Triangle services, I’ve always been welcomed back. The door is always open. I’ve never been turned away – no matter what time it is. It’s probably the biggest support I could ever ask for.”
