Friends of Cathja

The Cathja provides a welcoming space that provides the opportunity for people to engage in being creative. The resources are geared to using wood in all its forms and there is a range of tools and machinery to use. Sculpture also forms a big part of the activity so there is a chance to use different materials too.

Everyone who uses Cathja has experienced mental health problems – usually over a long period of time. There are no assessments or reviews other than if requested by the individual themselves. However, there is a huge amount of wisdom within the Cathja user and staff group which has proved to be a source of support and understanding to all. Staff will accompany individuals to formal review meetings if requested.

The Cathja way of working has enabled many people to gain confidence and skills that have moved them away from the 'patient' role into a more active and positive way of being. The service is based upon a few core principles:

• Users themselves determine the frequency and duration of their participation

• Users have real controls, rather than 'involvement' over the operation

• Numbers are restricted to 7–10 people each day

• There are no expectations of disclosures from users or 'clinical' assessments or reviews

• Activity and use of the facility is entirely determined by the individual, including the option not to engage in the 'work'

• Staff are enablers and supporters and do not present as mental health practitioners. However, as one radio commentator observed 'you are experts at not being experts'

• The environment and the creative activity are viewed as, and have proved to be, inherently healing. There is therefore no scrutiny, judgement or interpretation of the objects created.