Craft and Chat: creativity, connection and community wellbeing supported by Wellbeing for Life

A community craft group at West Close Livin in Shildon, County Durham is demonstrating how simple, welcoming activities can make a meaningful difference to people’s wellbeing. With support from a Wellbeing for Life microgrant, Craft and Chat is also showing how small amounts of funding can help local groups sustain valuable community support.

Wellbeing for Life Practitioner, Emily Merriweather established the group in June 2026 as an eight-week programme, meeting each Thursday. Supported by Livin who funded the craft supplies and provided the room for the sessions, Emily embedded the Five Ways to Wellbeing encouraging participants to build new connections, learn new skills and take time for themselves.

Paula and Sharon who now run the group independently, saw the real benefits experienced by members and were keen to see it continue beyond the original eight-week programme. They stepped in and, working with Livin who agreed to the continued use of the room, are now able to offer members a regular, accessible place to meet, create and connect.

Wellbeing for Life have continued their support of the group and have recently awarded a £250 Wellbeing for Life microgrant to enable members to purchase additional craft materials. Microgrants are available to community groups across County Durham to support activities that improve health and wellbeing, particularly where small amounts of funding can make a significant difference.

Jules Howe, Wellbeing for Life Community Connector who arranged the Microgrant for the group said: “Microgrants are designed to help communities turn local ideas into practical action. For groups like Craft and Chat, this type of funding helps cover the practical items needed to keep activities safe, inclusive and sustainable, ensuring members can continue to benefit from a welcoming space where they can connect, create and support their wellbeing.”

The impact of the group can be seen in Paula’s own experience. Having lived with anxiety and depression throughout her adult life, she was initially sceptical about attending the group. However, after encouragement from her daughter, she decided to give it a try.

From her first visit, Paula felt welcomed and accepted. Since then, she has found the group has had a positive impact on her mental wellbeing, providing both a creative outlet and a sense of connection.

That welcoming atmosphere is at the heart of the group’s success. Members can take part in a wide range of crafts or simply sit, chat and enjoy the company of others. On a typical Thursday morning, some people are cross-stitching, others are cutting fabric squares for wreath making, while others are simply enjoying the conversation around them.

The group has seen attendance grow from around 8 to 10 members each week to groups of around 15 regular attendees. With ages ranging from 20 to 85 demonstrating the group’s broad appeal it highlights the importance of informal community spaces where people of all ages can build friendships and support their wellbeing.

When asked what they get out of the sessions, members replied in unison: “It gets me out of the house.” They also spoke about trying new activities, enjoying friendly company and feeling part of a supportive community.

Paula said: “Whilst the majority of people attending the group are from County Durham, one lady travels from Catterick because she enjoys the company so much. Her commitment reflects the difference the group makes in helping people feel connected and valued.”

The Craft and Chat group demonstrates how creative activities can support wellbeing by reducing isolation, creating a sense of belonging and helping people build confidence through shared experiences.

Paula said: “This grant has been very helpful to our group. We are getting together today to chat about all the stock we need. We know we need some cordless glue guns and protective gloves, but it will be lovely to hear what other equipment and materials the ladies would like to have available.”

Find out more about working with Wellbeing for Life and how to access microgrants for your community group or venue by contacting: Email: cdda-tr.WBFL@nhs.net or Telephone: 0800 876 6887.

Wellbeing for Life is part of Adult Wellbeing Services and is delivered in partnership with County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust.