My Visit to the Discovery College: A Vision of Hope in the Highlands

Reflections on an Inspiring Day at the Discovery College, Eastgate Inverness – 28 August 2025

I had the privilege of visiting the Discovery College at Eastgate Inverness, home to the Scottish Highlands’ first drop-in recovery college dedicated entirely to supporting people with mental health concerns, wellbeing, substance abuse, and addiction. The experience was inspiring, leaving me optimistic for the future of community-led mental health support in the region.

First Impressions: Warmth, Welcome, and a Song

As I stepped into the Discovery College, I immediately felt a sense of comfort and openness. The atmosphere was relaxed—a gentle hum of conversation, the clink of tea mugs, and, rather unexpectedly, the soothing chords of a guitar played by a young gentleman as I entered. It set a tone of authenticity and ease, making it clear that this was a place where anyone could feel at home, regardless of their background or circumstances.

What struck me most was the absence of judgement. There was no air of bureaucracy, no waiting rooms lined with formality—just real people, in a real space, supporting one another. The welcoming environment is woven into every area of the college (which is larger than I anticipated), from the soft seating areas to the open invitation to sit down at a table and talk over a cup of tea.

An Innovative Approach: Drop-In Support for All

The Discovery College stands apart as a pioneering project in the Highlands. It differs from the more traditional mental health and recovery services, no referral is needed to access support here. People are free to simply drop in during opening hours, making help easily accessible when it’s needed most. This model removes barriers and demystifies the process of seeking help, making it straight forward for individuals to take that all-important first step.

The sessions and activities available are as diverse as the people who attend them, with each one co-developed and co-delivered by support staff who themselves have lived experience. This peer-led approach is evident in the easy rapport between staff and visitors; there’s a shared understanding, a common language of empathy and resilience, and a genuine demonstration of care.

Empowerment Through Community and Growth

The aim isn’t simply to provide short-term relief, but to equip people with the tools and confidence to better manage and cope with life’s challenges. The sessions—ranging from therapeutic workshops to informal drop-in chats—are all free, removing any financial hurdle that might otherwise prevent someone from seeking support.

The emphasis on co-production means that those who use the services can help shape them. This collaborative spirit ensures that the support offered remains relevant, effective, and rooted in the needs of the community.

Peer Support: The Heart of the College

I was particularly impressed by the peer support network that thrives within the college. Volunteers, many of whom have been through their own journeys of challenges and recovery, contribute their time and experience to help others. Their presence is invaluable, offering encouragement, practical advice, and a listening ear to those who need it.

The college bustles with activity—group sessions, creative workshops, and opportunities for people to connect, learn, and share. It’s a hive of gentle energy, demonstrating just how much can be achieved when people come together with compassion and purpose.

Looking to the Future

Visiting the Discovery College was a heartening reminder that change is possible, even in areas where support has been challenging to find due to lengthy waiting lists. This project is pioneering for the Highlands, and it’s easy to imagine how its model could benefit other communities across the area.

The Discovery College is more than just a space—it’s a community, a support system, and a testament to what can happen when empathy and understanding stand at the heart of mental health care.

As I left, the warmth and openness of the centre remained with me, a place where everyone is welcome, supported, and empowered to be themselves. If you know anyone who may struggling with their mental health, why not encourage them to pop along.

If you are interested in volunteering at the Discovery College contact Debbie: hello@centred.scot