OurPatch is the name I previously ran community garden projects in Worthing and Brighton, but we have since moved forwards as SmoothBoots Events, running community events and activities in Bristol that develop society through learning and working together.

Inclusion: Our aims and vision are based on values that promote inclusive therapeutic environments and a range of regular, carefully selected projects for all. We will target groups such as those struggling with poverty, addiction, those with learning disabilities, and those leaving mental health services. Reflective practice and solution focussed thinking will be encouraged throughout, and we advocate safe use of participant's existing skills, abilities, and knowledge while empowering volunteers to support others in-turn. Overall, we will nurture a kind and calm environment where basic assessments can be made and volunteers can develop a better respect for services. Buddy up people to create new, meaningful and supportive relationships.

Healthy Lifestyles: Projects will encourage healthy eating, and lead regular exercise groups that benefit physical, mental and social wellbeing and important shared meals. Each will be bolstered by conversations raising awareness and improving take up of healthy lifestyles. Environment and sustainability: We aim to make use of disused community listed properties in Bristol with support from the Council we can reinvigorate areas of the city as pop up shops to support local artisan makers and provide healthy affordable meals and drinks while reinventing them as vibrant inclusive spaces to encourage the positive development of a variety of needs groups. The therapeutically enabled environment will boast colourful art as a gallery space for in-house designed art and local artists, upcycling furniture projects, horticulture projects. Any adaptations to the space will be done to professional standards with permissions, and the land and premises will flourish as a result.

Employment and opportunity: Educational work with us includes discussion groups and led sessions from internal and external sources, supportive interventions, and mentoring. OurPatch helps people bridge the gap to employment through various partnerships including the Job Centre but also supports the wellbeing of carers/support workers themselves by inviting them to join the collective. New-found confidences and person skills help people with relationships and interviews, and over a period of time of recording and reviewing development milestones we would like to provide references for those entering work.