Packaging firm supports Swindon mental health initiative

Cricklade-based packaging manufacturer GWP has teamed up with Swindon charity Shine Pinehurst in a project promoting Mental Health Awareness Week.

Shine Pinehurst, which is part of the Church of England, wanted to explore what young people in the town did to help with their mental and emotional health.

After approaching GWP for assistance, the Cricklade firm donated a range of cardboard boxes to make an installation at Swindon Academy.

The charity used the boxes to create a wall, with students encouraged to write their top tips for helping with their mental health. The suggestions, including "turn all devices off," "talk to friends," and "eat pizza," were then displayed on the wall.

The installation gained positive feedback from the young people who took part and was in place for the duration of Mental Health Awareness Week, which ran until 13 May and this year aimed to raise awareness of the impact of loneliness on people's mental well-being and the practical steps individuals could take to address it.

Amy Cox, Youth and Community Worker for the charity, said: "It is great to have the support from local businesses with projects like this. GWP has been very helpful and responsive in supplying the materials we needed for the installation. 

"Raising awareness of how we can look after our mental health is incredibly important and initiatives like this can be vital in engaging young people."

The charity, running in Swindon for 11 years, describes itself as a fresh expression of the Church of England. Working mainly in Pinehurst, the charity runs several events and clubs for local residents. Activities include Friday Football, Shine Breakfast, Messy Saturdays and various events throughout the school holidays.

GWP has itself placed significant importance on mental health and staff wellbeing at its business, and is a Mindful Employer. it was happy to help when approached by the charity.

Ruth Cook, Managing Director of GWP Group, said: "We place a strong emphasis on our staff members' mental health and wellbeing, which our status as a mindful employer shows. So when Shine approached us to assist with their project, we understood what a great idea it was."

Besides their involvement with Shine Pinehurst, GWP has also supported various other community groups.

The manufacturer has provided extensive support for The Swindon Food Collective (formerly Swindon Foodbank), sponsored The Cricklade Band through coronavirus restrictions, supplied materials and equipment to numerous schools and helped with various other sponsorships and support.

Ruth Cook added: "As well as the priority placed on mental health, we also understand the importance of supporting local groups and charities. We are delighted to be able to help organisations such as Shine Pinehurst wherever possible."

GWP employs over 100 people – the majority from Swindon and the surrounding area – and designs and manufactures a wide range of bespoke packaging products.

More information about GWP can be found at www.gwp.co.uk

More information about Shine Pinehurst can be found at shinepinehurst.co.uk