Creating PITSTOP.Social was heavily influenced by personal experiences of living with anxiety, depression, and neurodiversity, and seeing how often people struggle quietly, even when they’re surrounded by others.

Cars were already a key pillar of my world, and what's always seemed obvious to me is how much better people seem to feel when they have a reason to show up, stand next to one another, and talk without pressure... Car people are the extended community we didn't know we had or needed.

Completing my degree, I researched the role of events and mental health, and my dissertation (which went on to receive awards) explored why shared, in-person experiences matter so deeply to our wellbeing as a society. That work shaped everything PITSTOP.Social has become.

Today, PITSTOP.Social exists to curate that research and those ideas into something real; events that give people a reason to leave the house, clothing that carries meaning, and an online space that feels grounded and human. It’s not about fixing anyone - it’s about connection, understanding, and reminding people they’re not carrying things alone.

I’ve kept the journey informed and on-track through accredited mental health training and peer to peer support, gaining multiple certificates and perspectives towards a deeper understanding, ensuring everything we do is appropriate, responsible, and people-first.

Thanks for being here and if any of this resonates, you’re already part of it.
Hope to see you around,

Clare シ