There’s been a buzz of excitement at Maesawel in Wales lately, and it’s all thanks to a brilliant woodwork project that the people we support have been working on. What started as a simple weekly activity has quickly grown into something everyone looks forward to — a chance to learn new skills, get creative and make something meaningful for their home.
Recently, the woodwork team brought home their latest masterpiece: a handmade wooden coat hanger and shelf, proudly crafted by Simon, David and Conway. And you can feel the pride in the air every time someone walks past it in the utility room.
How It All Started
Scheme Manager Joelle told us that the woodwork project began as a way for the people we support to get hands-on and learn something new — and it’s taken off better than anyone expected.
“Simon, David and Conway have been busy making new items for the home,” she explained. “They’ve already made a small table, and this week they brought home this amazing coat hook. We were very excited to get it straight up on the wall.”
Weekly encouragement and ideas come from Sam, Support Worker at Maesteilo, who helps guide each project. With Sam’s support — and help from staff at Maesawel — the team decide what they want to make and then build it from scratch.
Involved From Start to Finish
What makes this project so special is that the people we support take part in every stage of the process. From choosing the idea to cutting, sanding, assembling and finishing the piece — it’s truly their creation. “They took part in all parts of making this,” Joelle said. “They do most of it on their own but have staff support if they need it, and Sam is always there with them each week.”
And the excitement doesn’t stop in the workshop — it carries all the way home. “They couldn’t wait to bring it back to Maesawel to show everyone,” Joelle smiled. “They were all very excited.”
Building Confidence, One Project at a Time
For the people we support at Maesawel, these sessions are much more than just an activity. They’re a chance to grow in confidence, learn new skills and feel proud of what they’ve achieved.
“The people we support always look forward to going to woodwork each week,” Joelle shared. “They always come home with amazing items, and everything they’ve made is displayed around the home. It really builds confidence.”
There’s something powerful about seeing your work used every day — whether it’s a table in the lounge or a coat hanger in the utility room.
Person‑Centred Support in Action
The woodwork sessions are a great example of Swanton Group’s person‑centred approach. The people we support get the freedom to choose what they want to make, and the team ensures they have the tools, encouragement and support they need to bring their ideas to life.
“Sam and the staff let the people we support get on with their projects,” Joelle explained. “They’re there to help, but the people we support really take the lead.”
What’s Next for the Workshop?
The team isn’t slowing down. In fact, they’ve already got their next idea lined up. “The next item is a coffee table for the living room,” Joelle revealed. “They’ll start it next week.”
We can’t wait to see how it turns out — and we’re sure it will be just as impressive.
A Big Thank You
Before finishing, Joelle shared her appreciation for the support behind the scenes.
“I’d like to thank Sam from Maesteilo. He listens to what the people we support want to make each week, organises everything, and is always there to support. We’re really grateful for everything he does.”
