Grant helps WELLIES Project grow confidence and connection
A Derbyshire project using animals, plants, creativity and the countryside to support people recovering from mental ill health has received a funding boost.
The grant, awarded through our Community Chest Fund, will contribute towards 36 weeks of Friday sessions delivered by the WELLIES Project at Chapel on the Hill, near Ashbourne.
WELLIES stands for Wellness, Education, Learning, Laughter, Inspiration, Environment and Skills. The not for profit project helps people experiencing conditions such as social anxiety and depression to rebuild their confidence, improve their self esteem and form valuable social connections.
Participants can take part in a range of purposeful activities, including woodwork, cookery, gardening, floristry, fishing, rural crafts and countryside skills.
The Community Chest funding will provide funds towards cookery ingredients and craft materials, two kitchen volunteers as well as for essential minibus transport.
As Chapel on the Hill cannot be reached by public transport, the minibus plays an important role in making the project accessible to those who would otherwise struggle to attend.
Around 50 people are expected to benefit from the funded programme, with more than half anticipated to be our customers.
Julie White, Creative Director at the WELLIES Project said: "This means we can continue delivering our Friday WELLIES sessions for 36 weeks while removing some of the practical barriers that can prevent people from taking part.
"Because Chapel on the Hill isn't accessible by public transport, our minibus is essential. Funding for ingredients and materials also means participants can enjoy a varied and purposeful day without cost becoming another worry.
"We see people arrive feeling isolated or lacking in confidence and gradually begin to form friendships, rediscover their skills and believe in what they can do. We are enormously grateful to Platform Housing Group for helping us continue that work."
The WELLIES Project currently has a waiting list, with referrals coming from social prescribers, Jobcentre work coaches, housing association, community mental health teams, St Oswald's Hospital and organisations including The Shaw Trust.
Feedback from participants shows that people feel better connected, more confident and more ambitious after attending. Many go on to volunteering, employment or further learning, while also developing friendships and support networks that can reduce loneliness and reliance on public services.
Tracey Silk, our Community Engagement Officer said: "We are delighted to support the WELLIES Project and the valuable work it does to improve people's mental wellbeing and resilience.
"This is a practical and inclusive project that brings people together, creates new friendships and gives participants opportunities to learn skills in a welcoming rural environment.
"The demand for places demonstrates just how important the service is, and we're particularly pleased that our funding will help keep it accessible to Platform customers and others in the local community."
The WELLIES Project has 16 years' experience and is supported by seven experienced and qualified tutors, together with a team of volunteers. Its facilities include a large woodwork workshop, raised growing beds, a kitchen and a craft room.
The organisation was awarded The King's Award for Voluntary Service in 2025 and is also linked to Rural Action Derbyshire's Digital Inclusion Project and a wide range of health, social care and community support organisations.
Our Community Chest supports local organisations and projects which help improve the lives of customers and communities across the Midlands.
Photo caption : Participants in the WELLIES Project can take part in a range of purposeful activities, including woodwork, cookery, gardening, floristry, fishing, rural crafts and countryside skills.