A COMMUNITY project tackling social isolation in Chard is celebrating its 10th anniversary at the end of April.

The Working All Together in Chard (WATCH) project started in 2007 offering peer support in the town and now provides services across Somerset.

The voluntary group, which relies on public donations and grant funding, recently moved to the Chard Rugby FC clubhouse in Essex Close and has seen an increase in numbers.

Sadly, one of their major funders can no longer support them financially.

The project is centred around peer support to help reduce social isolation and exclusion in the communities.

Cllr Amanda Broom said: “The atmosphere in the group is friendly and welcoming; everyone is offered support, friendly conversation, activities and often laughs and fun. For some members, this can be the only conversation they have from week to week.”

WATCH Project Manager Julie Matthews said “The situation has been getting worse for people in our communities as they are not always able to get the support they need for various reasons.

“We offer vital peer support which helps people connect, because they know they won’t be judged and those helping really understand from their own experiences.”

The latest activity run by the group was Tai Chi. Members are always invited to try something new out, simply to have fun and no-one judges them.

WATCH was originally formed by Chard Intentional Peer Support Group in 2007 by a small group experiencing their own mental health issues. More than 10 years of operating in Chard they have an understanding of how isolation suppresses an individual’s potential.

WATCH now deliver peer facilitated workshops across the whole of Somerset in venues easy to access for adults with mental health issues.

Julie added: “At Watch you will find a warm welcome, laughter and a team spirit made up of our members, volunteers and staff creating a level playing field where everyone is equal.

“We run our Watch Thursday project every week from 11am until 4pm at Chard Rugby Club, Essex Close, Chard TA20 1RH.

“Referrals to our project can come from any support worker, Housing Organisation, GP, or Social Worker or please ring for information if you would like to self-refer.”

Watch is celebrating its 10th anniversary on Thursday, April 27 from 1pm until 4pm at the Chard Rugby club, Essex close. The event is open to all members of the public who are invited to have tea and cake.

WATCH is also currently looking for volunteers and donations to help them support isolated people in Somerset.

For more information, visit www.watchproject.org.uk or call 01460 261264.