August 14, 2023

Potter and Natter, led by Paul Forsyth for the Step Forward into Volunteering and Employment service, is going well – light gardening at our Carlisle office to inspire and initiate a positive impact on wellbeing and mental health.

Creating a safe space for conversations is the aspiration. The atmosphere is warm, friendly and productive… conversations flow whilst hands are busy with the gardening.

Early August work focussed on the courtyard outside the main hall, working towards clearing the space and getting it ready to be a wellbeing garden where CVS colleagues and visitors can take some air, have some refreshments and even have an outdoor meeting… put a coat on in winter!

Nelson has become a regular and is talking about his own journey. We are now helping him identify developmental opportunities and free courses that can support his vocational aspirations, and are exceptionally grateful for his and the other volunteers’ hard work.

We look after the volunteers and biscuits, cake, home grown tomatoes, cucumber, cheese and biscuits have all been enjoyed along the way. Paul is, in addition, a member of the Step Forward into Volunteering and Employment Advisory group that participated and was consulted when setting up the project as part of our commitment to co-production. It is indeed marvellous to have Paul now leading and showcasing how rewarding and beneficial volunteering can be, developing skills, relationships, networking and being part of the community.

If you want to get involved or can recommend the Potter and Natter group every Tuesday, 10 – 11 am, to someone who would benefit and enjoy the experience please do, and if you want to come and make the tea once in a while that would be super too.

Thank you Paul for leading the way and thank you to all who have worked hard to significantly improve the appearance of our Shaddongate outdoor space.

 

Shelley Studholme
Step Forward Project Manager
Cumbria CVS