About Lifeways

Lifeways is a charity governed by a board of voluntary Trustees from our local community. Our running costs are covered by letting rooms to therapists who share our aim to be a venue for wellbeing. If we make a surplus, it is put into free and low-cost community projects and mental health support. We do this by working with other charities, with our local community and with the therapists who work here.

Our charitable work includes supporting and hosting the Autistic Girls Network, a support group for parents with children who have difficulty attending schools, a Menopause Support Group and hosting Run-Talk-Run and Walk-Talk-Walk groups.

Therapists selected to work at Lifeways share our goal to promote good health and wellbeing. All therapists, counsellors and workshop teachers are carefully vetted to ensure that they are qualified and insured for their practice. DBS certification is required for all those working with children and vulnerable adults. Where applicable, practitioners are required to be members of a professional organisation governing their speciality.

Many community groups and local charities also use our rooms and garden adding immensely to the vibrancy of the centre.

As life gets ever more complicated and demanding, our unique, uncomplicated and friendly approach is proving to be needed more than ever.

Lifeways Community Garden

The garden at Lifeways is just under an acre in size. Our garden has flourished into a community space, with an emphasis placed on wildlife gardening and growing food in a sustainable manner.

Our Garden is currently used by a wide range of individuals and local groups including local gardeners, asylum seekers, people with learning difficulties, Green Minds - a project to help people with mental health issues and Escape Community Arts.

It comprises a more formal area close to the house, ornamental flower beds, a pond, a lawned area, several allotments, a sensory garden with disabled access and a wilderness area left for wildlife. We usually have a few community-owned chickens as well as five bee hives. Mature fruit trees – apples, pears and plums - are dotted around.

If you enjoy gardening and wish to meet other people who share your interest then we are always interested in voluntary help. To find out more contact James, our manager on 01789 292 052. All are welcome.