Active Independence’s Crafting Together: Upcycling for Good project – part of its Art of Wellbeing initiative, funded by The National Lottery Community Fund – continues to bring people together for creativity, skill-sharing and peer support.
Designed specifically for disabled people, carers and personal assistants, these free sessions provide a welcoming space to relax, try new crafts and build meaningful connections. As one recent attendee shared: “From coming in in tears to leaving in laughter is a huge statement to the power of healing and connection with others.”
The sessions thrive on peer encouragement and member-led skills. Recently, group member Julie led an autumn wreath-making workshop using faux flowers and recycled materials brought in from home. The room was buzzing with support as members created beautiful pieces to display on their front doors.
Alongside the regular projects, group members have also been busy with a special side project: stitching handcrafted Christmas stockings from donated fabric scraps. These stockings will be donated to children supported by the OSMIS project, which provides social, emotional and mental health alternative provision across local schools and outreach programmes.
Anyone with spare Christmas fabric to donate – or who would like to stitch a few stockings at home – is encouraged to support the project.
Upcoming sessions
All sessions are completely free, with all materials provided. The group meets on the first, third and fifth Wednesday of the month from 12.30pm to 3.30pm at Brecks Community Hub, Rotherham S65 3HU. Upcoming dates include:
- Wednesday 30th September – Resin Halloween Coasters
- Wednesday 7th October – Halloween Wreaths
- Wednesday 21st October – Remembrance Day Cushion
- Wednesday 4th November – Great Catch-Up
- Wednesday 18th November – Christmas Wreaths
Whether you are looking to learn a new skill, upcycle old materials or simply enjoy a cuppa and a laugh with a supportive group, you are warmly invited to join.
Contact Fiona on 07429 709849, visit http://www.activeindependence.org/wp/events or see http://www.facebook.com/activeindependence.