‘The
best thing in life is moving on’
Evenk
saying , Siberia.
You will have already ‘moved on’
once you arrive at TWIGS . If you feel motivated to come for a visit this
probably means your road to recovery is underway.
The time you spend with us will most
likely depend on several factors , but ultimately upon you.
If you feel in need of a place where
you can grow , not only in confidence , but also in skills and aspirations
, then the peaceful , inspirational gardens and workshops at TWIGS could
be just that place.
We believe that by working closely
with nature we can all grow and bear fruit , both for ourselves , and for
our community .
The garden has many lessons to teach
us . Perhaps one of the most relevant is that it is often the case that
through periods of distress and hardship can come the birth of growth and
development.
TWIGS can be one of the threads that
contribute to the fabric of successful recovery from mental health
problems.
Because we are all different there are
many and varied opportunities on offer which
provide for a wide range of interests and abilities ( please take
the time to look through the pages on this site to learn more).
It may be the benefits that spring
from working as part of a team that appeal to you , or perhaps finding
some space for yourself will give peace of mind.
Peer support is a powerful and
positive element here . We all learn from each other ; ‘Each one
–Teach one’ as they say in Jamaica .
The views and opinions of all who come
to TWIGS are valued and respected and the vast majority of feedback we
receive substantiates this (via monthly meetings ,a yearly evaluation form
or ‘suggestion box’).
Places are provisionally offered for
two years with six monthly reviews designed to ensure that the therapeutic
development programme meets your needs .An extended placement of a further
two years can be negotiated . This reflects the reality that some mental
health problems have arisen over long periods of time and that recovery
for most will also be gradual and can not be rushed .
We hope that being at TWIGS will be an
enjoyable and memorable time for you . We can help you to identify and
realise progress and possibly broaden your horizons . An employment
advisor is regularly available to help you explore other options when you
feel ready.
“ The garden is a place of many
sacraments , an arena – at once as common as any room and as special as
a church – where we can go not just to witness but to enact in a ritual
way our abiding ties to the natural world”.
Michael
Pollen , ‘The Botany of Desire’.
