Participaction 1999-2007

ParticipAction Whitby (PAW) originated in 1999 when four or five individuals who attended a local mental health activity centre came to work on the garden and grounds of Stainsacre Hall. Volunteers and staff from the local NHS/Social services Mental Health Trust supported them. Initially, work was carried out on Tuesdays for 4 or 5 hours. Tasks such as weeding, digging and light trimming were carried out under qualified supervision. Towards the end of the summer of 1999 more work was needed to ensure the group could carry on meeting. An approach was made to Middlesbrough Borough Council, who owns Stainsacre Hall, and a small plot of land 60 ft X 60ft was made available for a nursery site. A funding bid was made to Boulby Potash Mine and was successful to the sum of £500. With additional funding from the Whitby Employment Project and the local Leader II initiative, the site was fenced off and a greenhouse, poly-tunnel and a potting shed erected. All this work took place throughout the spring and summer of 2000 with the assistance of New Deal participants at Stainsacre Hall.

 

Current Activities

Since 2000 there has been continual development. Currently the site houses 3 poly-tunnels, 2 greenhouses, a members shed and an extensive composting system. This development has provided many therapeutic opportunities for individuals and groups to develop new skills and gain confidence, and increase self esteem.

 

ARTICLE WRITTEN BY SUE HODGSON