Supporting groups that promote wellbeing, connection, and recovery

Social groups for engagement and connection

We supported the St Helens Recovery Team at Peasley Cross Hospital to deliver a variety of meaningful groups for patients and service users that promote wellbeing, connection, and engagement. These regular sessions play a vital role in supporting recovery, offering patients a relaxed and welcoming environment where they can build friendships, share experiences, and take part in therapeutic group activities.

What we funded:

Friends and Social Group: We funded games, outdoor sports equipment and speakers to listen to music

Gardening Group: We provided tools and plants as well as cushions to support patient and volunteer gardening

Walking Group: We funded waterproof clothing, walking boots, umbrellas and torches for all weather walks

Cooking Group: We bought new pans, utensils and an air fryer to kickstart culinary therapy and support healthy eating

Case Study: Social groups transform patient’s life

STR Worker for the Recovery Team, Julian Hanley told us about a patient whose life has been completely transformed by attending Mersey Care Recovery Groups.

“When I began working with Eddie around twelve months ago, he struggled with mobility, needing to stop six or seven times during short walks. Through one-to-one sessions and participation in the Recovery Team’s Walking and Social groups, he gradually built up his stamina. Today, he walks up to 3 km and has made walking a daily part of his routine. Alongside physical activity, we discussed lifestyle changes. These changes have contributed to significant weight loss and he reports no longer suffering from diabetes. This is just one example of how charitable funds have supported us to improve the lives of our service users.

"The walking and social groups offer more than just activities — they provide a safe, supportive space where people living with mental health conditions can share experiences, exchange ideas, and build lasting friendships”