knitting communties together

A knitting project, backed by a £22,000 grant and aimed at improving people’s wellbeing, is to be launched in Exeter.

The Knit-Stop is an Exeter-based social knitting project that will offer free, six-week knitting classes, to new groups in central Exeter from February.

The project has received a grant of £22,270 over two years from the People’s Health Trust, using money raised by HealthContact, through The Health Lottery.

Debbie Judd, The Knit Stop project coordinator said it was hoped than women and men of all ages, backgrounds and abilities would be inspired to learn new skills, make friends and feel good about themselves and their communities. Everyone would have an opportunity to complete a knit-a-long project over a number of classes.

She said: “The Knit-Stop is not just about knitting. I truly believe – and I’ve seen it happen – that knitting in groups can help keep people and communities healthy and happy.

“I want our knitting groups to give all people, whatever age and whatever issues they may face, the chance to explore the therapeutic and creative possibilities of knitting in a supportive, friendly and fun setting.”

The Knit-Stop is also supporting exciting research work at The University of
Exeter Medical School into the therapeutic benefits of knitting groups.

Chris Lunn, Director, HealthContact said: “This project brings real value to the health and wellbeing of the local community and we are delighted to be supporting it.”

Knit Stop groups will be launching in the centre of Exeter in February.
For more information about the project, contact Debbie Judd on 01392 422789
email debbie.judd@neighbourworks.co.uk
or visit www.theknitstop.co.uk