Summary

At TWIGS we endeavour to facilitate recovery from the unsettling and disabling effects of mental illness.

Our co-financed service involves the use of horticulture in its many forms as a therapeutic medium capable of affecting positive change. This funding allows us to assist the recovery process over varying periods from 6 - 21 months.

TWIGS exist to provide creative occupational opportunities, which encourage the restoration of mental well being via the therapeutic mediums of horticulture and associated crafts.

We Aim to:

1. Create an environment, which encourages social interaction and development of social skills.

2. Provide a safe and supportive environment, which promotes self-confidence and cultivates personal growth and development

3. Integrate people back into the wider community and the world of work.

By:

2. Creating opportunities for volunteers to become involved in all aspects of the organization and work in partnership with other community groups.

3. Each individual following their own development programme where needs and aspiration are matched to realistic goals.

4. Providing guidance and support to enable people to gain greater independence and access further opportunities in moving on.

Horticultural Therapy

By supplying a creative, stimulating and compassionate environment we are able to provide the right conditions for up to 120 adults experiencing mental health problems to develop self confidence and self esteem, as well as improve motivation and concentration.

We provide training in a diverse range of workshops based around horticulture and associated crafts as well as sustainable land based activities. By the careful selection of plants and gardening projects we are able to see success readily achieved, which in turn fosters a sense of increased self worth at a personal level.

The horticultural activities become a powerful working medicine. Through witnessing the triumph of life from seemingly barren ground, and acknowledging the reassuring predictability of nature, growth is mirrored within the individual.

Individual development plans are evaluated and modified via self assessment which is substantiated with guidance and support from experienced staff.

With input from the QEST employment service, the acquisition of new skills and improved mental health, individuals are enabled to explore opportunities that include; paid employment, voluntary work, supported employment and further education / training.

We are a member of the Swindon Occupational Partnership (SOP) which is a forum of local voluntary sector providers who share a belief in working holistically and in partnership with other services to support the needs and aspirations of people with severe mental health problems

Other members include ; Phoenix Enterprises , LEAVES , New Dimensions , Wiltshire QEST and SwindonCarers.