Stafford Sub Group

Jo and Andrew held a small sub-group to introduce two people with lived experience to each other and to talk about what's coming with the Co-Production project.

During the meeting, Andrew explained some of the work that has already been started and how people can get involved. One person currently resides in Leek and mentioned their concerns over the closure of the sensory garden, due to funding being withdrawn. They explained how important this garden was to them as an inclusive and safe space. They said "due to health issues, I wanted to join the chair exercise groups at the cafe there as they were not all about the older generation like most. Now I’m not going to be able to do it." It was also mentioned that the leisure centre in Leek has been closed for 18 months now. It was supposed to have been for 12 months and there has been no updates on when this will re-open. The other member informed them that there were projects they could be involved in at Oak Tree Farm in Hilderstone and they had a great discussion together about it.

Jo and Andrew spoke about the Partnership Board Meetings (the next one is on 14^th July) and explained what this entails. They talked about how people with lived experience will be fully supported throughout the meeting. Both experts were interested so we'll hopefully be supporting them at the next meeting, or the one afterwards in November.