Root and Branch

Here at Root and Branch, we believe in the power of the outdoors and nature in the process of healing, our garden is at the heart of what we do. We also believe that learning new skills as part of a supportive community enables recovery, and recognise that everyone has their own path to follow. We show compassion, are non-judgemental and inclusive, and are committed to creating a safe and secure place where people are respected, trusted and supported.

After careful consideration to the risks to service users, staff and volunteers, we returned to remote support for the third lockdown period. Root and Branch have given telephone support to service users, helping to manage anxieties, focus on daily routines and goals. We aimed to improve online access to continue learning skills such as gardening, crafts, IT, cooking and exercise as well as ensuring social networks are maintained using our own group Zoom calls.

We are very pleased to announce that, subject to national lockdown restrictions lifting and reduced local infection rates, our site on Westmill Farm will be opening again from 22nd March. This will be a phased approach, starting with outdoor and gardening activities and maintaining safety measures of 'Hands, Face, Space'. Indoor activities will be phased in gradually when assessed as safe to do so.

Thank you to those of you who supported us in both 2020 and 2021. During this very difficult year, your generosity has made a great difference and we really do appreciate it. But we still need your help, please do continue to support us.

We have set up a Just Giving campaign to raise essential funds needed to enable us to adapt and continue to provide support and meet our objectives. We would be very grateful for donations to help us during this time: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/covid-response We are also able to receive donations made through purchases on Amazon Smile.

There are other ways you can help:

- Set up a monthly standing order

- Get fit and get sponsored

- Hold a cake sale

During this COVID-19 lock-down and through the first, although our service-users cannot be on-site, we continue to support their healing by producing weekly newsletters, garden diaries, sharing photos of developments and gardening guidance. Our community of service-users, volunteers and staff continue to support one another through friendship, collaboration and learning.

Our support continues to take the form of a range of approaches:

Regular contact with service-users, listening and offering reassurance
Setting practical goals and reflecting on small steps of progress
Liaising with GP services and Adult Mental Health teams and signposting to other services

We have harnessed new technology, like Zoom, to bring the Root and Branch community together.

The Root and Branch volunteers have continued their support in many ways. They have written poetry and messages for the newsletter as well as regular art projects for service-users.

During these times, our community is more important than ever. We continue our commitment to create a safe and secure place and help our service-users in their recoveries through respect, learning, compassion, and friendship.