A trainee working on a woodwork project in the Handcrafted workshop

Gavin’s Story

From social isolation to contributing in the community

We have had significant success working with people facing social isolation. This is often men over 50 who are struggling with their mental health due to long-term unemployment, family breakdown or offending history.

We have been working with Gavin for several years since he was living in temporary hostel accommodation. Gavin is very isolated with no support from family or friends. He is unable to re-enter the labour market and his daily life is being increasingly impacted by symptoms of Dementia.

He engaged well with the woodwork; he has expanded his skills over time and takes great pride in making things for other people. We were able to provide housing for Gavin, along with person-centred support which has made it sustainable for him to live independently. We have found that our side-by-side approach, has empowered Gavin to improve his mental wellbeing through increased social and creative activity.

Testimonials

Changing Lives have been working in partnership with Handcrafted for some time, and have seen the improvements that they have made to the service since they first began. We see Handcrafted as a valuable partner, providing effective support to our residents, most of whom are socially excluded and have been given up on by other services.

Handcrafted provides a safe environment for residents, so that they can explore new skills, gain confidence and improve self-esteem. This has been demonstrated on a number of occasions, when residents have been given the support specific to their needs, staff have shown patience and understanding in dealing with individuals who can be very challenging.

We work very closely with Handcrafted and have formed a unique working partnership together, we have seen a massive difference in the confidence that our residents have when they have engaged in this service, and that is due to the staff at Handcrafted going the extra mile, to make a difference to our residents, showing empathy and understanding and without judgement.

Long may this continue…

Margaret M, Service Lead, Changing Lives