Willowdene Successfully Opens New Craft and Wellbeing Centre

Willowdene is thrilled to announce the successful opening of its new workshop and classroom for its, current and future, residents. The centre was opened by, the Lord Lieutenant of Shropshire, Anna Turned. This milestone marks a significant step forward in enhancing the facilities available to, showcasing Willowdene’s commitment to providing an engaging and welcoming environment.

Willowdene Rehabilitation and Training, located near Bridgnorth, offers a variety of services focused on life transformation for individuals facing challenges such as substance misuse, offending behaviours, and other barriers to stability and purpose. Established in 1988, The centre operates across 240 acres with facilities for training, workshops, and residential accommodations with programs integrating therapeutic support, vocational training, life-skills development, and real-world work experience.

“The continued support of Aico has enabled the vision to become a reality of which we are all extremely grateful” said Matt Home, Chief Executive Officer, Willowdene. “The new Craft and Wellbeing Centre will make a significant difference to our students at Willowdene, allowing them to train in dedicated purpose-built workshops, classrooms and the important break out space in the well-being room”.

In the lead-up to the event, team members from Aico made significant contributions through donating furniture and offering up their time towards improving the premises. They worked diligently to clean and arrange furniture, ensuring the building was complete and ready for the opening. The collaborative efforts paid off, as the space now offers a presentable and polished look, which will enable for an even more effective experience for guests.

Senior Product Development Executive, Ross Hayward (one of the volunteers) added, “Getting the opportunity to work with Willowdene is always such a rewarding experience. You can really see the change they are making to people’s lives and being a part of that gives you a great feeling. The growth of Willowdene and their desire to help more and more people is truly inspirational and I’m looking forward to more opportunities to volunteer”.

Aico’s Managing Director, Neal Hooper, adds “It’s an honour to be able to support the inspiring Dr Matt Home, his wife Sarah, their colleagues and the students. The UKs only rehabilitation and training centre”.  The new workshop and classroom building highlight Willowdene’s dedication to continuous improvement and creating inspiring spaces for learning and growth. Visitors to the Open Day will be among the first to experience this new addition, reflecting Willowdene’s forward-thinking vision for its community.