Green-fingered needed for innovative mental health project
Workers at a Staffordshire Moorlands horticulture project that helps people with a mental illness to rebuild their lives are calling for volunteers and visitors.
National mental health charity, Rethink Mental Illness, runs the project on Fowlchurch Road, Leek, which has supported people with mental health problems for ten years.
John Hall Garden is open to the public and sells a range of produce including bedding plants, shrubs, hanging baskets, fruit and vegetables. The garden offers a working environment for anyone who wants to learn new skills, and staff need more volunteers and visitors for a range of activities coming up in 2012
Mark Cope, 24, from Leek, who has used the service since 2008 after experiencing social anxiety, said: “When I first came to the garden, I struggled to talk to people, maintain eye contact and felt very uncomfortable talking about the anxiety I was experiencing.
“Coming somewhere that offers such an alternative approach to building your confidence and getting active has made a huge difference to me.
“I’ve developed a passion for photography since being here and have made a lot of new friends. I was studying at the University of Bradford before my mental health issues, and I’m now applying to become a fully fledged volunteer for Rethink Mental Illness while I prepare to return to higher education.”
Rachael Littleford, Rethink Mental Illness Service Manager, said: “We provide a safe and supported working environment in a relaxed setting to help people with mental illness get back on their feet. We try to support people to get back to work and other activities which others may take for granted.
“People can come here to gain work experience and at the same time meet new people and learn new skills. Staff and volunteers here help people set new goals and get on the road to recovery. We encourage people to take on all aspects of running the garden. This kind of responsibility helps people get some hope and meaning back in their lives.”
If you would like support from Rethink Mental Illness or would like to visit the garden, or help as a volunteer, please call 01538 387111.
Anyone who wants advice about mental illness or support services in your area can call
0300 5000 927 or visit www.rethink.org
ENDS
For more information call Lucy Ing, senior media relations officer at Rethink Mental Illness, on 0161 226 4488/07918 617302 or email lucy.ing@rethink.org
Notes to editors
Rethink Mental Illness is a charity that believes a better life is possible for millions of people affected by mental illness.
For 40 years we have brought people together to support each other. We run services and support groups that change people’s lives and challenge attitudes about mental illness.
We directly support almost 60,000 people every year across England to get through crises, to live independently and to realise they are not alone.
We give information and advice to 500,000 more and we change policy for millions.
