About Ellie
A Bit about Me.
The Art of Possible
Dare to Fear
A Little About Me
I grew up in Wales, surrounded by hills, sheep, horses and a simple kind of life that shaped my early sense of resilience. At 15, I left home and began finding my own way in the world, often without a clear plan but with a growing sense that I needed to keep moving forward.
In my late teens, I spent time in India volunteering in Buddhist schools. That experience broadened my perspective and gave me an early understanding of community, humility, and the value of service.
My path hasn’t been straightforward. I’ve experienced domestic violence and a period of homelessness, living in a basic caravan in Manchester without amenities. It was a difficult and uncertain time, but also one where I encountered real kindness—a housing officer who helped me access a safe place indoors. That moment stayed with me.
With support and determination, I went on to study social work at university. My lived experience has shaped how I see people and the systems around them. It’s taught me that change is possible, but rarely easy or linear.
This is my journey—still unfolding, still learning.
The Art of possible
Research Topic: Levelling up the Equity Gap for People With Hidden Disabilities and Differences
NHS R&D Programme: Social Care
We’re excited to share an update from Ellie Atkins, participant of the first Social Care Cohort, whose dedication to social care research is taking her to new heights. Following her internship, Ellie has become part of a research community at King’s College London and is now involved in a PhD research bid under the university’s capacity-building initiative for early researchers. Fingers crossed for this exciting opportunity!
Her research focuses on levelling up the equity gap for people with hidden disabilities and differences, addressing critical issues in accessibility and inclusion.
Ellie also had the opportunity to present the findings from her internship to the Ministry of Housing, ensuring that her work contributes to real-world policy discussions.
Her commitment to research and frontline practice continues to drive meaningful change in the field of social care.
Dare to fear.
I'm a sailor, with a skipper ticket in my back pocket!
From Couch to Sailing: A Story of Fear, Courage, Freedom and Joy
By Ellie Atkins
In 2025, the idea of spending time at sea felt impossible. I feared the water and preferred comfort over challenge. But in January 2025, something shifted. I chose to step beyond what felt safe and learn to sail and circumnavigate Britain on a little red boat—despite the fear.
How It Began: Frozen Ropes, a Pond, and Plenty of Panic
My first experiences of learning to sail were clumsy and humbling. I felt out of place and overwhelmed, learning unfamiliar skills in uncomfortable conditions. But I kept showing up. Slowly, persistence replaced fear.
Circumnavigating Britain: Bold, Naïve, Transformational
After completing my Day Skipper, we set off around Britain. It was ambitious and, at times, naïve. Sailing demanded resilience, adaptability, and responsibility. Life became simple and honest, centred on meeting basic needs and caring for each other.
1,000 Nautical Miles: The Sea Becomes a Teacher
With time, fear softened. The sea became something to learn from rather than resist. I gained confidence, awareness, and trust in myself.
2,000 Nautical Miles: Courage Meets Grit
Confidence grew through experience. I learned discipline, steadiness, and how to keep going through discomfort.
3,000 Nautical Miles: Humbled
Now, nearly 3,000 miles on, I feel both humbled and at home at sea. This journey has reshaped me.
To Anyone Standing at the Edge of a Dream
You don’t need to feel ready. Start anyway. Growth begins where comfort ends.
I now volunteer at Ocean Youth Trust Scotland.
The Ocean Youth Trust Scotland aims to transform young people’s lives through residential sailing voyages that build confidence, resilience, and teamwork. They focus especially on those facing disadvantage or challenges, offering opportunities to develop life skills in a supportive, outdoor environment. Their mission is to inspire positive change by helping young people realise their potential at sea and beyond.
