A couple of months ago a fantastic project called ‘The Woodshed’ applied to the Pobl Trust for some funding; Kristina Walsh and Tanya Bollen from our Newport Homes & Communities team, were lucky enough to be part of the panel that heard their presentation and recently visited the ‘Woodshed’ team, based in St Cadocs Hospital in Caerleon, to see how the project was getting on.
Tanya Bollen, our Business Intelligence Performance Manager, told us …
“Their presentation ticked all the boxes, and the drive, determination and passion from Nathan and Kevin was infectious. The panel felt that this was a great idea, and the hard work invested by these men in their own time to achieve their vision did not go unnoticed.
These amazing guys work at St Cadoc’s Hospital at the inpatient rehabilitation unit for men, where many will have experienced poor mental health, offending issues and will have experienced extremely difficult life events. The rehab programme will aim to build their confidence and skill set to enable them to transition back into the community.
An old unused building in the grounds of St Cadoc’s was where the idea of the Woodshed began. This building could be brought back to life and help the men to gain confidence and learn new skills; such as carpentry and painting & decorating. They’ll also learn how to upcycle furniture which they can take with them when they move out of the hospital into their homes. There is also an entrepreneurial element where some of the items made will be sold.
Kristina and I were honoured to attend an open day at the Woodshed where managers, directors and professionals from the hospital could see the transformation of the old unused building and get an update on the Woodshed’s progress.
We are hoping to return to see it in action over the coming months. This project will make such a difference to those who will use it and will have a big impact on the community.”
Pobl Trust awarded Aneurin Bevan Health Board £3,500 to fund the tools and equipment to be able to run project ‘Woodshed’.
Article added: 18th September 2018
