Musical mowing helps out leaves (From Swindon Advertiser)

Musical mowing helps out leaves

9:40pm Thursday 9th July 2009

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FOR Tricia Print, it was a case of classy brass while mowing the grass.

Tricia, who belongs to the charity Leaves, was working in the Swindon garden of resident Bill Ruck while being serenaded by members of the Pegasus Brass Band.

Leaves is one of two charities which will benefit later this month from a charity concert featuring the Pegasus Brass Band and Swindon Young Musicians.

The High Sheriff’s concert, which is being organised by Swindon Cares, takes place at Christ Church in Old Town on Saturday, July 18, where the other beneficiary of the fund-raiser will be the Swindon Down’s Syndrome Group.

Bob Astbury from Leaves explained that the charity, which is a workers’ co-operative, provides valuable work and training opportunities for those recovering from mental illness.

They have helped with recycling collections from homes in Swindon, woodland conservation at four locations in the town, as well as compost and woodchip bagging, which is then sold and distributed.

“Leaves provides real paid jobs for people not yet able to sustain commercial employment,” he said.

“This improves their financial independence and also their self-esteem, with the added confidence to try other activities.”

In seven years, Leaves has grown from four members to 25, people who are now able to contemplate taking up meaningful work and training. This work has provided a powerful motivator to those disadvantaged in the labour market because of their mental health.

“Most of our clients have progressed from other organisations such as Twigs, but who are not yet able to contemplate commercial employment," added Bob.

“We provide a pathway to recovery. Members gradually increase their hours to the point where the transition to commercial employment is viable.

“Several people have already moved on to work for commercial companies and others have increased their responsibilities in wider roles within Leaves.”

For tickets to the July 18 concert, which are priced at £6 or £15 with a light buffet and refreshments, contact Nicky Alberry on 01793 428320.

The concert is one of many events being put on by Swindon Cares, which includes a quiz night at the De Vere Hotel on July 14, and a boys versus girls netball tournament at the Dorcan Netball Dome on July 17.

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