Ilfracombe wellbeing project helping North Devon Homes’ customers

As a community landlord, we strive to support our customers with more than just a roof over their heads.

We care about the wellbeing of our customers and that’s why, since 2022, we have worked with the mental health support enterprise, The Straw Patch Project based near Ilfracombe.

The Straw Patch Project is a Community Interest Company run and managed by Alex Straw and Sarah Pedlar.

The project began in March 2021 with the aim of being nature’s prescription to mental health with the philosophy that providing regular, structured activity outdoors can really make the difference to a positive mental outlook.

When we heard about the project, we knew this would be beneficial for some of our residents. Our Community Services Team got in contact with Sarah and made it possible for a group of North Devon Homes’ customers to have weekly sessions at the centre.

This has enabled the group to get active, meet new people, learn new skills, share their skills and be part of something truly special.

The wellbeing centre that The Straw Patch Project has created is based on a small holding set in the North Devon countryside.

It offers a safe outdoor space to nurture wellbeing by using nature based activities to improve mental, social and physical wellbeing.

It has been joyous for us to see the benefits from those who have attended. They are always eager to visit and enjoy each other’s company.

We have witnessed people’s moods lifting as well as their physical strength and fitness. It’s a way to remove the four walls; the concrete barriers and gives them the opportunity to engage with likeminded residents.

They take part in activities including sowing seeds, weeding, planting, cooking, animal petting and animal care, alongside some arts and crafts activities and the day always finished with a hot drink and a slice of cake.

We provide transport to ensure all that want to go can attend and they are accompanied by a member of staff from NDH who can offer support, where needed.

Some attendees are now looking at going into other volunteering opportunities in their community, such as the Ilfracombe Men’s Shed who support the project.

The Straw Patch Project is an asset for the local area and relies on funding to keep it going. Anyone wishing to donate to the project can do by visiting www.gofundme.com/f/the-straw-patch-project