Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Lifestyle

How we live together: the vegan and the meat-eater

Nina Rennie and Fiona Hardie
Nina Rennie, left, and Fiona Hardie: ‘I always try to remember that although it’s my house, it’s also her home.’ Photograph: Murdo MacLeod for the Guardian

Nina Rennie, 26

I became vegan seven years ago, to get healthier and to lose weight. No one catered for vegans back then, so it was hard to eat out, and I did lose weight. Three months in, I watched a documentary called Earthlings and had an epiphany that veganism was the way forward. So I helped form a local organisation, Vegan Connections, which supports and promotes the Glasgow vegan community.

When I advertised for a flatmate I wanted a vegetarian or vegan to move in, but when Fiona got in touch, I really liked her, which somehow seemed more important. We work quite easily around each other’s tastes, and I always try to remember that although it’s my house, it’s also her home. Back in the day, I was a bit preachy; now I get through to people by sharing yummy food and answering their questions.

Fiona Hardie, 26

I was veggie myself for a couple of years, but I think it takes a huge commitment – I really admire Nina for her passion.

I was looking for a flat-share and hers was perfect, so despite her ad mentioning a preference for a vegetarian or vegan, I went and we really got on. We have very few ground rules, apart from me not leaving big bits of beef on the worktop and making sure I clear up properly when preparing food. And I don’t eat red meat in the flat, although I will when I go out for a meal.

She has never tried to convert me, though I think veganism has potential for me in the future if I can commit to it properly. Animal and environmental concerns do make me feel that it’s the right way to live.

If you have a story to tell about who you live with, fill in this form and tell us a little about your set-up.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.