Thank you so much for running a fantastic group!

It has been our most successful group, and everyone involved has loved it! Thats beacuse of you! Honestly, it would not have been anywhere near as good, ran by anyone else.

I know Clair and I will defiantly miss you, but we hope to have you back soon. We wish you all the luck and success as a CIC.

p.s. If you do ever employ help, remember Clair and I are great!

Kylie and Clair - NHS Liskeard Team

"I am writing in support of the ongoing and expanded delivery of pottery sessions led by Rachel Richardson, a local ceramicist who has provided a deeply valuable creative programme for clients supported by the Kerrier Mental Health Team in Cornwall.

Over the past 10 months, I have supported a group of 15 clients—each living with various mental health challenges—to attend fortnightly pottery sessions facilitated by Rachel. The impact of these sessions has been overwhelmingly positive, both in terms of therapeutic benefit and client engagement. Attendance remained consistently high throughout the programme, with clients rarely missing a session. In fact, the activity became so popular that I began transporting clients to an additional group in another town just to meet the growing demand.

Rachel’s sessions offered more than just a creative outlet. Clients developed a genuine sense of community, connecting with one another and with Rachel in a safe, welcoming, and non-clinical setting. Her teaching style is a key part of this success—gentle, encouraging, humorous, and inclusive. Clients regularly commented on how much they valued her kindness and approachability, as well as her ability to teach the craft in a way that made everyone feel confident and relaxed.

The benefits to mental health have been clear and wide-ranging. Clients gained a new interest, expressed themselves through art, and enjoyed a regular, meaningful activity that reduced isolation and provided a break from daily stress. Many shared that the sessions gave them something to look forward to each week—an opportunity to create, connect, and feel calm.

As an Occupational Therapy Assistant, I was also involved in the sessions and can personally attest to the positive atmosphere and therapeutic value Rachel brings to the room. It was a pleasure to take part, and a privilege to witness the impact it had on our clients. I have since spoken with many others in our service who would also greatly benefit from taking part in future sessions.

There is clear, ongoing demand for this type of creative therapeutic programme within our mental health services. I strongly support any initiative that would enable more of our clients to access pottery sessions with Rachel Richardson, whether through continued funding, new partnerships, or expansion to additional locations. Her work has made a significant difference in the lives of the people we support, and I hope very much that it can continue to do so."

Helen Mills - NHS Occupational Therapy Assistant

"The clay group has been such a pleasure to be a part of and has been very popular among the clients that attend. It offers a no-pressure environment where people can relax, express themselves, and connect through creativity. It's amazing to see clients so immersed and inspired in the activity and having the opportunity to feel a sense of reward from seeing the outcome of their creations"

Karen Jones - NHS Occupational Therapy Support Worker

"It was fantastic to have you on board and an absolute pleasure. I'm sad I was only able to join for the first few months. From those months alone it was very apparent that it contributed a lot to the patients wellbeing, and provided a platform for them to feel safe and connected to others in the group. I know that it helped --- to feel a sense of community where she had been excluded from other groups, just seeing her smile alone brought so much joy."

Becky Wearne - Occupational Therapy Support Worker

I have known Rachael who facilitates the Clay club for a number of months, I would like to mention this group as being a very positive and welcoming group for clients, On a professional level I know of a couple who have attended Clay Club constantly who would before never consider being a part of a group linked with mental health obstacles, I feel due to the contents of it being a Clay club and not linked with a 'Mental health' heading or using psychological tools this feels more of an easy going but still very important group to attend.

I also want to report on how much work is put in to this group, Rachael will arrive with 3 or 4 large trays of craft equipment to use, She is really good with all group attendees and is a natural which is clear the group enjoys being led by her and her in depth knowledge in Arts & Crafts.

I would really appreciate the Clay Club to continue as long as possible in Stepping Stones MHRC. I understand it has a valid place within our Centre and community.

Mr. Nicholas Andrew Madge - Mental Health Recovery Worker

“Rachael has run the clay club at The Old Library, Bodmin for almost two years and has been a real asset to our creative programme. We are very sorry to see her leave.

Rachael fosters a warm and welcoming atmosphere, inspiring everyone who attends. Every session is organised smoothly and efficiently, making it easy for both beginners and experienced potters to learn and create together.

The real highlight has been Rachael herself—her passion, patience, and expertise make each class a genuine pleasure. She always takes the time to encourage, guide, and generously share her knowledge, helping everyone grow in confidence and skill. I have learned so much more than I expected, and my love of pottery has flourished thanks to this fantastic club and its wonderful tutor.”

Highly Recommended!

Julie Griffins - Into Bodmin

You're the best

Thank you for providing a fab group for us over the last 10 months!

Restormel CMHT