Right at Home Guildford and Farnham gets hooked on crochet

It began as a social activity for caregivers but a mention on social media has seen Right at Home’s Crochet Club expand beyond the workplace into the community.

The Crochet Club was initially launched to give Right at Home GF’s caregivers a relaxing and creative outlet for unwinding and switching off at the end of a busy day.

Adriana Mendonca, Registered Manager at Right at Home Guildford and Farnham came up with the idea along with her colleagues Vicky Parker and Claire Skilton. Adriana says: “Our caregivers work really hard looking after our clients, so we think it is important to make sure they also get the opportunity to look after their own wellbeing with some ‘me time’. In the past we’ve arranged pamper days and other social events but with Crochet Club we have introduced caregivers to a hobby that they can pick up and do at any time of the day.”

The club aims to meet once a week at Right at Home’s headquarters in Runfold. Around 20 beginners and more experienced crocheters come together to socialise and learn from each other. Adriana has set the Crochet Club members with a goal to crochet enough ‘granny squares’ to make a blanket for a local homelessness shelter.

Adriana has been crocheting since she was 15 and says: “Crocheting has always been a part of my life. I love that it is a hobby that can be enjoyed by all age groups and that it offers so many mental health benefits and skill-sharing opportunities.

“After sharing details on our Facebook page, I was thrilled to be contacted by a couple of people from the community who wanted to know if they could join our club. I love the inclusiveness of crocheting, and that people want to be involved.”

More details about how Right at Home GF look after its staff and the clubs they run for members of the community can be found at www.rightathome.co.uk/guildford-and-farnham/information-hub/right-at-home-community-groups/ or email hello@rightathomegf.co.uk or call 01252 783426.