Favourite Places

A Magical Place

I’ve written before about one of my favourite local places, TWIGS Community Gardens. During lockdown, TWIGS has continued to provide essential support to service users. Telephone calls and gardening kits were offered when people were not permitted to visit the gardens in person.

As I’m sure is the case for many people, TWIGS has provided a range of plants for our garden over the years. It’s also where I experienced my first involvement with the local poetry scene, and is one of our son’s favourite places.

With lockdown restrictions easing, TWIGS are beginning to welcome visitors back through carefully managed bookings. We were fortunate to book a slot last week, and it was a welcome return to one of our favourite places. Stepping through the gates, we had the sensation of entering a secret world. The staff team has worked tirelessly to maintain the themed gardens and support all those residing there.

Imagine a library, museum, or place of worship. That’s the feeling of calm connectedness which TWIGS inspires. It’s not a place which encourages people to rush. Whatever the weather, each exhibit deserves quiet contemplation, and appreciation. The separate sections of the gardens have been established over many years. Staff go about their work calmly, unobtrusively, but always have time to talk about the flora and fauna at TWIGS.

Thank You

TWIGS exist to support people experiencing mental health problems, and to provide somewhere for the local community to visit and enjoy nature. As we near the end of Mental Health Awareness Week, it’s a chance to reflect on places such as TWIGS. Places which offer a means of connecting to nature in support of our collective mental health. They generally do so with enthusiasm, empathy and little fanfare. Many people have experienced mental health challenges throughout the pandemic, and it’s absolutely essential that TWIGS and similar community projects are able to continue to flourish. TWIGS is a safe space for many people across the community. Whatever is going on in life, or inside my head, TWIGS has been a reliable constant of warmth and support. Thank you.