Therapy group 'transformed my life'

The six-week courses can involve gardening, crafts, animals and nature

A woman who did not leave the house due to mental health problems has said a therapy group has changed her life.

Wendy Matthews said she did not "go anywhere or do anything" before she went on a course with the Wellies Project.

The non-for-profit organisation operating in Staffordshire and Derbyshire, offers courses involving activities with plants, animals, creativity and the countryside.

"It’s life-changing but it's life-saving, because I don't think I'd be here today if it wasn't for Wellies," said Ms Matthews, who is now a dedicated volunteer.

Carole Turner described a similar mental health transformation after enrolling on a course two years ago.

"The first day, I cried all day," she said. "I had to put a lot of trust in the people to go to a place where I didn't know anybody."

Ms Turner said she had grown in confidence through the course and learned skills and hobbies that she could practice at home.

"It got me out the flat, got me meeting people and making things," she said.

Having now become a group volunteer, she added: "I've got a purpose in life now, whereas I didn't have a purpose in life two years ago."

The Wellies Project began in 2012 and has expanded to hosting sessions in Tamworth, Lichfield, Burton upon Trent, Leek and Uttoxeter, with a pick up service available from Swadlincote and Ashbourne.

Carole Turner said the knitting skills she has learned at Wellies kept her occupied at home to help combat loneliness

Mark Fisher first joined the group five years ago and is pleased to see its growth across Staffordshire and Derbyshire.

"It’s like a family," he said, "People come together... they go home with a big smile on their face with something to show for themselves."

Participant Sam Allen said she now made trips into her local town centre, which she said she was unable to do before taking joining a course.

"I was in a big, dark, depressed hole and I went to Wellies and it's changed my life for the better," she said.

Mark Fisher described himself as withdrawn and unable to speak to anyone during his first three sessions of the project