Working closely with referrers to support people to access Bridewell's recovery service.
Our impact
We know Bridewell can play a vital role in recovery, we see it week to week. The garden provides a stepping stone for people working towards recovery
Bridewell Garden's Impact
Working with adults of all ages, referred from Adult Mental Health Teams, GPs and voluntary organisations across the county.
2,473
Gardening sessions held in 2022
19-65
Range of ages of people currently accessing Bridewell
5,250
Volunteer hours given last year
Our mission
Working alongside people in nature to find hope in recovery
- Community and compassion
- Structure and routine
- Hope and recovery
Our partnerships
Bridewell works closely with other services in the area including with the wider voluntary and community sector in the county and as a member of the Oxfordshire Mental Health Partnership.
Working with Oxford NHS Foundation Trust we receive referrals through the Adult Mental Health Teams in Banbury, Oxford, and Witney. Bridewell also supports people with next steps through connections with local volunteering opportunities, wellbeing services and community projects.
Our goals for 2023
As a small local charity about to reach the milestone of 30 years of service delivery, we carefully prioritise where our resources go to make sure we can achieve the most impact for people whose lives have been affected by serious mental ill health.
Reducing barriers
Opportunities beyond Bridewell
Building connections with community groups, next steps for paid and voluntary work.
Inclusive
People who have experience of mental ill health are involved in making decisions and developing Bridewell.
Sustainable
Making sure Bridewell can continue providing support for the next 30 years.
A few words from our gardeners
Feedback from people who have accessed Bridewell's recovery service
I think it’s really important for others who use the service to see there is hope and one day you will regain control of your life and find better ways of dealing with what life throws at you.
Former Gardener
2 years
I have learnt many skills whilst at Bridewell; whittling, willow-weaving and gardening.
Gardener
7 months
I enjoyed working amongst a diverse group of people I might not have ever normally got to meet. They’re all really good people who have had a hard time but are pushing through it in a very brave way.
Former Gardener
3 years
Bridewell fully met and exceeded my expectations and I would recommend it to others who are struggling mentally to reach out as a way to keep some routine and purpose to those hard days.
Former Gardener
1 year 5 months
I don’t think I’d have made the progress I’ve made without having Bridewell as an anchor through times of extreme change.
Former Gardener
13 months
Bridewell made me more confident being in small groups and made me realise that it’s ok to ask for help
Former Gardener
1 year 1 month
I’m not good [at socialising] with others but as time went on I began to feel part of a group. We all had our struggles and for me knowing I was not on my own anymore helped.
Former Gardener
2 years
Learn more about Bridewell
Learn more about the walled garden and Bridewell's recovery service
