Story: Diana Tottle
Local mental health charity, SAGE Greenfingers, is bouncing out of a long period of funding uncertainty with two large grants secured at the end of 2014.
A grant of £498,639 over five years from the Big Lottery will support adults with a wide range of mental health problems via horticultural therapy and arts activities, along with a further grant of £69,572 over three years from the Lloyds Bank Foundation.
As well as supporting groups on Grimesthorpe allotments this will enable SAGE to offer training and advice to other organisations wanting to set up similar projects. Also, for those not attracted by gardening, SAGE plans to restart singing workshops for women that have previously proved so successful.
Director Diana Tottle comments, “2014 was our 10th anniversary on Grimesthorpe allotments! Without these funds we might have been forced to close at the worst time of year but instead we will be running groups throughout 2015 and many a season to follow.” SAGE runs horticultural therapy sessions four times a week (including one women-only session) on Grimesthorpe allotments. Encouraging people to get out into the fresh air, meet with others, eat fresh food grown by themselves, helps boost confidence and self-esteem.
Current member Rita comments, “Before I come here I used to cry. I was worried. I didn’t open my windows and curtains. But now I feel better.” Another member, Julie, added, “Instead of watching telly, I come here! Telly’s boring. Come out and have a laugh!”
Contact for further details:
Diana Tottle, Director, SAGE Greenfingers
Telephone: 0114 274 3651
Mobile: 07851 724 803
Email: diana@sagesheffield.org.uk
Or visit: http:www.sagesheffield.org.uk