The WELLIES Project offers therapeutic learning activities with animals, plants, creativity, and the countryside for people recovering from mental ill health. The acronym WELLIES stands for:

• Wellness
• Education
• Learning
• Laughter
• Inspiration
• Environment
• Skills

The directors of both Growing Rural Enterprise Ltd and Staffordshire Care Farming CIC founded the project in 2012 after realising that gentle exercise, fresh air, meeting people, making friends, having fun and informal learning have a positive impact on people’s health and well-being. They also serve as a rural business advisor, helping others develop care farming enterprises.

The WELLIES project is based on the Staffordshire/Derbyshire border and supports all Staffordshire residents aged 19+ in East Staffordshire, Lichfield, Staffordshire Moorlands and Tamworth.

Activities at WELLIES include fishing, cookery, gardening, rural crafts, floristry, woodwork, countryside management, and looking after chickens and vintage tractor renovation. Participants enjoy a healthy lunch each day, often prepared using produce from the garden and eggs from the WELLIES chickens.

The project has had a positive impact on participants’ mental health and well-being. Attendees have reported increased confidence, meaningful friendships, and a sense of community. Some have even transitioned to employment after spending time at WELLIES. The project provides a safe space for peer support and skill development, fostering a sense of purpose and belonging.

For the latest courses from this partner, contact:

Stephanie Holmes
Email: info@growingruralenterprise.co.uk  or steph@growingruralenterprise.co.uk

Website:http://welliesproject.org.uk 

Facebook:http://www.facebook.com/thewelliesproject

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