Our Story

Pepper’s was named after Mary Pepper, a wonderful local lady who enabled the start of the Pepper's journey and who inspired what we are today.

A Kind and Courageous Lady

Mary Pepper was a kind and courageous woman whose long life included, among other things, valuable time as a young police

officer, and many years as the manager of Rutland County Council’s home help services.

Sadly, her life also included severe mental health problems and, although she never won the war against her challenges, she

frequently emerged victorious from the battles and skirmishes. Mary was always ready to fight for justice for others, especially

in regard to mental health issues.

When she died in 2018 at the age of 86, she left a big gap for many people: it was said that “wherever Mary was, there was

laughter”.

Mary wanted the money that was donated at her funeral to be used to help people. She would have been so pleased to see the creation of Pepper’s – a safe place to be and a safe place to laugh.