Winter is a time for recovery and preparation.

It’s cold and dark outside – but you know there’s plenty about winter to savour. Wrapping up in layers and going for a walk, snuggling up with a hot drink, nibbles and a good snow filled movie (The Holiday is our favourite) – and best of all knowing that spring will follow.

We’ve discovered while putting together this issue, the power of being with like minded people and asking for help during dark times.

We met people who have spent years, even decades, facing challenges – like Linton, who was diagnosed with autism at 28 and has ‘never been happier’. His recovery worker helped him not only to work through his emotions, but to fulfil a lifelong passion for photography and in joining a group of film makers, to find his ‘tribe’. (Page 6).

Zara lost her baby son at just five months old. When she became pregnant again the fear of a recurrence became a ‘constant nightmare’. With support from Silver Birch Hubs, a service for women experiencing pregnancy or maternal distress, Zara was able to share her anxieties and meet mums in her position. (Page 16).

For some of us it may be the season to be jolly – but the trend is towards non alcoholic tipples. We ask a brewery (yes that’s right) why it’s good news all round.

It’s time to take stock and settle. As the writer Paul Theroux said: “Winter is a season for recovery and preparation.”

Enjoy this issue and find time for all those things and more.

The MC Magazine Team.