Programme supports those struggling with mental health challenges

Social enterprise Gro-Organic is calling for more local support for its 'Dig-it crew' who are helping to support community members struggling with mental health challenges in the wake of Covid-19.

Gro-Organic 's 'Dig-It ' programme aims to break down barriers and stigma linked to those living with mental health and learning and physical disabilities.

The activities are specifically designed so that people can gain practical and life skills, enabling them to become more independent and grow their social network.

Gro-Organic's Dig-it crew have been volunteering in the community since 2011 and are hoping to increase their capacity to support more people.

The organisation says Dig-it is 'fun, friendly and welcoming ', giving adults impacted by mental health challenges the opportunity to meet new people, make new friends and improve their wellbeing.

Activities include community gardening, chicken care, fruit, vegetable and flower growing and arts and crafts. The produce grown in the community gardens is donated to social supermarkets, food banks, and residents.

Due to Covid-19 and the national and local lockdowns, more people than ever are struggling from the effects of isolation, lacking time outdoors and experiencing increased anxiety and depression. The Dig-It programme needs urgent donations to run more sessions and purchase additional tools and equipment, allowing more people to join our community.

Tal Arrowsmith, the community engagement lead at Gro-Organic, said: “Despite the Dig-It members' personal challenges, they contribute so much to the area and now we want to support more people as we come out of this difficult time. We would be grateful for any donation.

" I am really proud to work with the Dig-It crew and have seen the difference our community group can make. I would like everyone who needs support to be able to come. Following recent turbulent times I know support like this is more important than ever."