Penny has nearly 20 years’ experience in the charity sector.  As Executive Lead for the National Suicide Prevention Alliance she helped redefine their strategy and priorities, doubled their membership and engagement, and established a network of people with lived experience who are trained and supported to influence change in policy and practice.  She previously led The Reader’s work in London, establishing their ‘reading for well-being’ programme there, with a focus on reducing loneliness, building confidence and connection, and enhancing people’s understanding of themselves and others.  She learned to love poetry while running reading groups, and saw first-hand the value of holding creative spaces that can help people flourish.