Easter Fun at Enablement Care

We had a fantastic Easter celebration at Enablement Care Sutton in Ashfield, complete with sunshine, smiles, and a surprise visit from the Easter Bunny!

Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make the day so special.

Please get in touch if you’d like to know more about our sessions and seasonal events.

Baking Hot Cross Buns: A Hands-On Easter Session at The Hub

Our recent Basic Cooking Session at The Hub embraced the spirit of Easter with a timeless favourite – hot cross buns. Led by Cayton, with support from John and Anthony, the session welcomed regular participants RR and DD, along with newcomer GN, who joined just in time for one of the season’s most rewarding activities.

The group began with refreshments and a moment to settle in. RR confidently made his own tea, GN opted for orange cordial, and everyone prepared for baking with handwashing and aprons at the ready.

From weighing out ingredients to mixing and kneading the dough, participants were fully hands-on throughout. The sensory experience of working with flour, yeast, and spices provided both fun and therapeutic value – even if a few aprons ended up dusted in white. These sessions not only build practical life skills but also support motor coordination, confidence, and teamwork.

DD took the lead in shaping the dough into even buns, while others carefully piped on the traditional crosses before they went into the oven. While the buns baked, RR jumped in to help with the washing up, showing initiative and a real sense of shared responsibility.

The highlight of the session was, of course, the moment the buns emerged from the oven – golden brown, aromatic, and finished with a honey glaze. GN helped with the final step, glazing each bun to perfection before the group enjoyed a well-earned taste test.

This kind of session combines practical skills with social interaction, offering participants a chance to engage in meaningful activity in a relaxed, supportive setting.

Thank you to Cayton, John, and all involved for creating another warm, welcoming, and memorable experience.

Please get in touch if you’d like more information about our sessions and how we support individuals with additional needs through engaging, hands-on activities.

Easter Disco Brings Spring Cheer to The Towers

Service user smiling and holding a prize and paper bag during the Easter Disco, with party lights in the background.

The Easter Disco at The Towers was a lively and inclusive evening. It offered residents and service users a chance to socialise, celebrate, and enjoy a range of activities in a supportive environment.

Stormtrooper standing beside a group of friends seated around a table with drinks and snacks at the Easter Disco.

The event welcomed GN, our newest group member, who immediately joined in the fun and even won the raffle – a brilliant way to start her journey with us. From the beginning, the room was filled with music, laughter, and excitement, as Easter-themed games offered plenty of chances to win chocolate prizes and get involved.

Service user dancing in a dimly lit room with other guests visible in the background.

DE led the way on the dancefloor, bringing her usual energy to crowd favourites like the “Hokey Cokey” and the “Birdie Dance.” DK entertained everyone with a confident lip-sync performance, while AW sparked a spontaneous conga line when “The Loco-Motion” started playing. Others, like KC, preferred to relax at the tables, enjoying refreshments and conversation.

Stormtrooper posing with a smiling woman wearing a lanyard at the event.

One of the evening’s most memorable moments came when MF arrived dressed as a Stormtrooper – a surprise that brought big smiles and plenty of photo opportunities.

These events aren’t just fun – they play a valuable role in supporting wellbeing, promoting social interaction, and offering varied ways for individuals with additional needs to engage on their own terms. Whether through music, movement, humour, or conversation, everyone had the chance to take part in a way that suited them.

Person dressed in a full Stormtrooper costume standing indoors at the event.

Huge thanks go to Abbie, Sara, Cayton, and Tracy for their support throughout the evening and for helping create a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

Our next themed event will be a summer Beach Party – flip-flops optional, good vibes guaranteed.

Please get in touch if you’d like more information about our sessions and how we support individuals with additional needs through meaningful and inclusive activities.

Walking Club Visits Brierley Park : A Refreshing Local Stroll

A large, partially frozen lake reflecting the winter sky, surrounded by bare trees, with ducks floating on the unfrozen water in the distance.
A green sign reading "Welcome to Brierley Forest Park" stands against a backdrop of tall, leafless trees under a clear blue sky.

Recently Walking Club took us on a scenic stroll around the beautiful Brierley Park. With fresh air, good company, and a chance to stretch our legs, it was the perfect way to enjoy the great outdoors while staying active.

A smiling woman in a grey coat stands in a grassy area surrounded by wooden and stone sculptures, including a large carved seed and a tree trunk with an embedded relief carving.

As we walked through the park, we took in the peaceful surroundings, spotting wildlife and appreciating the changing seasons. The gentle pace made it accessible for everyone, and the opportunity to chat along the way made it a lovely social experience too.

Three people, dressed warmly in jackets and hoodies, pose together for a selfie during their walk along a scenic countryside path, with hedgerows and trees in the background.

Walking is a fantastic way to boost both physical and mental well-being, and our regular meet-ups offer a great chance to connect with others while exploring the local area. Whether you’re looking to stay fit, meet new people, or simply enjoy nature, we’d love to have you join us on our next walk!

A close-up selfie of two people smiling outdoors, with a well-trodden walking path and trees in the background.

📍 Come along next time! See you there! 🚶‍♂️🚶‍♀️

#BrierleyPark #WalkingClub #StayActive #CommunityWalks #HealthyLiving

Let’s Talk: Breaking the Silence on Time to Talk Day

🗓️ Thursday, 6th February 2025 is Time to Talk Day, a national awareness campaign encouraging open conversations about mental health. Run by Mind and Rethink Mental Illness, in partnership with the Co-op, Time to Talk Day is all about making space for conversation and reminding people that talking really can change lives.

At CCT Community Enablement Team Ltd, we believe that talking is powerful, and having a supportive space to share your thoughts, worries, and joys can improve well-being. This year, we’re encouraging everyone to take a moment to check in on a friend, join a conversation, or come along to one of our friendly community sessions.

Why Talking About Mental Health Matters

We all have mental health, just like we have physical health. But too often, people feel afraid to talk about their struggles. 1 in 4 people experience a mental health problem each year, yet stigma and silence still prevent many from reaching out.

Time to Talk Day is an opportunity to change that. Conversations – whether big or small – help break the stigma, provide support, and remind people they’re not alone. You don’t have to be an expert; simply listening can make a real difference.

The key message? The more we talk, the more we break down barriers.

Finding Support Through Our Community Groups

Sometimes, starting a conversation feels easier when you’re doing something together. That’s why we offer supportive, social activities where you can connect with others in a relaxed and welcoming environment.

🪴 🌱 Gardening Club (Mondays) – Nature is a great stress reliever. Join us for a chat while planting, pruning, or simply enjoying the fresh air. Free to attend – and lunch at Enablement Care is just £1.50 after the session!

🚶‍♂️ Tuesday Walking Club – Walking side by side can make talking feel more natural. Join us for a friendly walk from 10:15 AM – 2:00 PM, open to all. Fresh air, good company, and gentle movement – what’s not to love?

👩‍🍳 🍳 Cooking Club (Wednesdays) – Sharing food brings people together. Learn new skills, enjoy a warm meal, and make new connections at The Community Hub (£3 per session).

How You Can Take Part in Time to Talk Day

💬 Start a Conversation – Ask a friend or family member how they’re doing. A simple “How have you been?” can mean so much.

Make Time for a Cuppa & a Chat – Grab a tea or coffee with someone and check in on them.

📲 Reach Out – If meeting in person isn’t possible, send a message or give someone a call.

🏡 Join Us! – Our clubs are a great way to chat, meet new people, and get involved in the community.

💙 This Time to Talk Day, let’s work together to make mental health conversations part of everyday life. A simple chat could change someone’s day – or even their life.

📩 Want to join one of our community groups? We’d love to welcome you!
📧 Email info@challengect.co.uk or call 01623 397750 for more details.

🔗 For more information on Time to Talk Day, visit:
www.time-to-change.org.uk

Tuesday Walking Club – Attenborough Nature Reserve

This week, our Walking Club ventured to the beautiful Attenborough Nature Reserve, where members enjoyed a stroll among the stunning scenery. The reserve, renowned for its diverse wildlife and picturesque views, provided the perfect backdrop for much-needed outdoor time and connection with nature.

A reflective image of a church steeple, houses, and trees in a calm body of water, framed by winter trees.
A reflective image of a church steeple, houses, and trees in a calm body of water framed by winter trees.
A woman standing in a car park on a cloudy day, smiling warmly at the camera. Rows of parked cars and bare trees are visible in the background.
A woman standing in a car park on a cloudy day, smiling warmly at the camera. Rows of parked cars and bare trees are visible in the background.
A man wearing wellies and a winter coat standing in a puddle on a muddy path, smiling at the camera with binoculars around his neck.
A man wearing wellies and a winter coat standing in a puddle on a muddy path, smiling at the camera with binoculars around his neck.

The walk was a mix of leisure and exploration, with members stopping to admire the serene lakes, wooded trails, and local birdlife. It was a chance to unwind, catch up, and enjoy being outdoors with the group.

A group of walkers, dressed warmly, strolling along a wooded path on a cloudy winter day.
A group of walkers, dressed warmly, strolling along a wooded path on a cloudy winter day.
A group of four walkers posing on a green bridge, giving a thumbs-up to the camera.
A group of four walkers posing on a green bridge, giving a thumbs-up to the camera.
A serene view of a river with trees and a distant industrial building under a cloudy sky.
A serene view of a river with trees and a distant industrial building under a cloudy sky.

One of the day’s highlights was the creative photography by our very own Cayton, whose eye for detail added a unique touch to the outing. A particularly striking image showcasing a phone capturing a moment on the trail! These photos remind us to pause and appreciate the little details of our surroundings. Well done, Cayton!

A close-up shot of a phone screen displaying a portrait photo of a man in wellies and a winter coat, with a blurry background of trees.
A close-up shot of a phone screen displaying a portrait photo of a man in wellies and a winter coat, with a blurry background of trees.
A man and a woman standing on a bridge, smiling at the camera, with a view of the water and trees in the background.
A man and a woman are standing on a bridge, smiling at the camera, with a view of the water and trees in the background.

As the walk concluded, members reflected on the importance of staying active and connected, even during the colder months. Attenborough Nature Reserve, with its peaceful paths and breathtaking views, proved once again why it’s a favourite destination for the Walking Club.

A man pointing something out to a woman on a wooded walking path during the walk.
A man pointing something out to a woman on a wooded walking path during the walk.

Thank you to everyone who joined, and a big thanks to Cayton for the brilliant photography.

We look forward to seeing you all at the next walk!

Tuesday Walking Club – Carsington Water

Several sailboats moored along the edge of Carsington Water, surrounded by rocky terrain and grassy fields, with the horizon framed by hills and clouds.

Our Tuesday Walking Club kicked off the year with a steady and enjoyable walk along Carsington Water Dam. The crisp air and stunning views made it a wonderful day to reconnect with nature and each other.

This year, we’re excited to introduce something new to our walks – a dedicated camera to capture our adventures! Each week, a different member will take a turn behind the lens, experimenting with their own unique style and perspective. Once everyone gets the hang of the camera, we’re looking forward to seeing the variety of creative photos that will document our journeys.

For our first outing, Raymond was our photographer. He captured some fantastic shots (see below). It’s a great way to add a little extra creativity to our walks and to preserve the memories we make together.

After the walk, we ended the day on a cosy note in the café, enjoying coffee and our packed lunches. It was the perfect way to wrap up a successful first outing.

Here’s to many more wonderful walks this year with the Tuesday Walking Club!

Raymonds photographs…

Other pictures taken by Cayton…

Christmas Jumper Day Success! 🎄

A group of residents and staff from the Community Enablement Team and Enablement Care posing together in festive Christmas jumpers. The group is gathered in a warmly decorated room with a Christmas tree and holiday decor in the background, radiating holiday cheer.

Community Enablement Team and Enablement Care staff and residents entered into the festive spirit in December by participating in Christmas Jumper Day. Everyone looked fantastic in their cosy jumpers!

We’re thrilled to share that we raised £32, which has been donated to Save the Children. This contribution will help support the incredible work they do for children in need worldwide. Thank you to everyone who joined in and made this day so special!

2025 Gardening Club: A Green Adventure Awaits!

Are you a gardening enthusiast or curious to give it a try? Our Gardening Club is back and better than ever! Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a complete beginner, we invite you to join us and cultivate community, wellness, and growth through the joys of gardening.

Promotional banner for CCT Community Enablement Team's Monday Gardening Club. The text reads 'Monday Gardening Club - Now Open to All!' in bold orange letters on a gradient blue-to-green background. Logos for CCT Community Enablement Team and Enablement Care are displayed at the bottom.
Promotional banner for CCT Community Enablement Team’s Monday Gardening Club. The text reads ‘Monday Gardening Club – Now Open to All!’ in bold orange letters on a gradient blue-to-green background. Logos for CCT Community Enablement Team and Enablement Care are displayed at the bottom.

When and Where

  • Every Monday
    • Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
    • Location (January): Either Enablement Care or the Community Hub.
    • Location (February onwards): Our beautiful allotment off Milldale Walk, Sutton-in-Ashfield, NG17 2DJ.

What to Expect

The Gardening Club is more than just planting seeds; it’s about:

  • Learning gardening skills in a relaxed and supportive environment.
  • Connecting with others in your local community who share your interests.
  • Spending time outdoors, which is great for both your mental and physical health.

Cost

  • Attendance: Completely free!
  • Optional Lunch at Enablement Care: Just £1.50 per meal.

Open to All

This year, we’re excited to announce that the Gardening Club is now open to the wider public! Everyone is welcome to join us in making the most of this rewarding and therapeutic activity.

Get in Touch

For more information or to join the group:

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect, learn, and grow! Whether you’re joining us for January sessions at Enablement Care or gearing up to dig into the allotment come February, we can’t wait to see you there.

Let’s grow together – literally! 🌱