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Service User Post: Bucket List Blog by Maf

A few more things off my bucket list, I went to Willow Farm today, with Catherine, my support worker.

Maf and her community support worker Catherine at Willow farm.

We had booked a meerkat enclosure experience and whilst waiting we looked around this small lovely farm.

Maf with a meerkat in the background at Willow farm
Maf with a meerkat on her lap taking food from a plastic cup
Maf with a meerkat sitting on her lap

I came across the reptiles.

I have never held a snake and got the opportunity to do this today. 

This is a female corn snake aged 15 years old.

Maf holding a corn snake with a tank in the background

This was also my first time holding a gecko

Maf's first experience holding a gecko

The main event was sitting in the enclosure with the meerkats and having a talk on them by a lady called Jo, we got to feed them and they sat on our knees and on Catherine’s shoulder. This experience was even more than I expected as not just reptiles and meerkat I got to meet a skunk! Called stinky!

Maf holding a skunk called stinky
Another picture of Maf holding a skunk called stinky

I had such a lovely day, getting to meet the animals, and the staff were really friendly, if you haven’t been to Willow Farm I would recommend it. 

Maf with an alpaca there is an fence between them
Maf reaching her arm over a gate to touch the top of a cow's head
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Walking Club Visits Newstead Abbey

Group standing on a sunny path: "Six members of the Walking Club standing together outdoors, enjoying the sunny weather at Newstead Abbey."
Stepping stones across water: "Members of the Walking Club carefully crossing stepping stones over a peaceful pond in the gardens at Newstead Abbey."

Walking Club enjoyed a wonderful adventure at historic Newstead Abbey recently, exploring its centuries-old beauty. Bright skies made ideal conditions for wandering the Abbey’s scenic grounds.

View through open gates to waterfall: "View through large wooden gates onto a cascading waterfall set within green grassy grounds at Newstead Abbey."

Our journey began at the stunning waterfall, where we stepped behind the cascading waters for memorable photos—immersed in the cool mist and soothing sounds of nature. From there, we strolled through the tranquil Japanese Garden, crossing stone paths and charming bridges, soaking in the garden’s peaceful atmosphere and engaging conversations.

Close-up waterfall: "The waterfall at Newstead Abbey flowing vigorously over stone walls into the pool below, creating a peaceful scene."

Next, we admired the rugged elegance of the Rock Garden and paused at Eagle Pond, captivated by legends whispered through the still water. As lunchtime approached, we gathered at the café, sharing sandwiches, cakes, hot coffees, and packed lunches, enjoying both food and friendship amidst historic surroundings.

Man sitting on a garden bench: "A member of the Walking Club resting and smiling on a wooden bench amidst greenery in Newstead Abbey’s gardens."
Woman smiling by pond: "A cheerful member of the Walking Club standing by a tranquil pond surrounded by lush greenery at Newstead Abbey."

After lunch, a quick visit to the gift shop offered handcrafted treasures and fascinating books. Some members expressed interest in returning for the Abbey’s guided weekend tours (£15 per ticket, with support staff free), discovering deeper insights into its rich past—including its famous connection to poet Lord Byron.

Gentle water cascade: "A gentle cascade of water flowing over rocks, reflecting surrounding greenery and creating a calm, natural scene at Newstead Abbey."

Our day concluded happily, filled with nature, history, and laughter—a perfect reminder of the joy found in local adventures. Here’s to more explorations of the beauty on our doorstep!

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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

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Walking Club Visit to Woolaton Hall

A friendly conversation between two people in warm outdoor gear on a paved path in Wollaton Park, with one gesturing while the other listens. A third person stands nearby observing.

On the 11th of Feb, we braved the chill and went for a wander around Woolaton Hall. A great time was had by all and we took LOTS of pictures!! Take a look through them here…

Two people walking along a tree-lined path in Wollaton Park, both wearing warm clothing. One is carrying a camera around their neck, and the other has a bright orange backpack.
A friendly conversation between two people in warm outdoor gear on a paved path in Wollaton Park, with one gesturing while the other listens. A third person stands nearby observing.
A person wearing a brown coat and wellies walking away down a tree-lined path in Wollaton Park, surrounded by bare branches and fallen leaves.
A person in a brown coat and wellies carefully stepping through a muddy puddle in a grassy field, holding binoculars while navigating the wet terrain.
An informational sign at Wollaton Hall and Deer Park featuring an image of a leopard and details about the hall being home to Nottingham's Natural History Museum.
Three fallow deer standing near a wooden fence at the edge of a field, partially hidden by the bare branches of the trees behind them.
A black crow perched on a wooden picnic table outside a stone building, looking to the side with its feathers glistening in the daylight.
A red deer stag resting on a bed of fallen leaves in a woodland area of Wollaton Park, its large antlers standing tall against the backdrop of bare trees.
A small group of people engaged in conversation in the park, one person smiling while another listens attentively, with Wollaton Hall visible in the background.
An informational sign about the deer of Wollaton Park, explaining the differences between Red Deer and Fallow Deer.
Two men posing for a photo, one holding binoculars and wearing wellies, while the other is dressed in a thick coat and beanie.
Two people standing near a tree, one pointing into the distance, both dressed warmly with backpacks.
A close-up of snowdrop flowers emerging from the damp grass, signaling early signs of spring.
A group of five people in warm clothing standing on a path in Wollaton Park, with Wollaton Hall partially visible in the background.
A red deer stag standing on a bed of leaves, lifting its head and roaring, with twisted tree branches in the background.
A red deer stag resting among fallen leaves in the woodland of Wollaton Park, its large antlers standing prominently.
Wollaton Hall, a grand Elizabethan mansion with intricate architectural details, stands against an overcast sky with a large green lawn in the foreground.


How about joining us on our next adventure?!
📅 Tuesday Mornings

📍 Location: Varies

💰 Free
🫶 All are welcome!

ℹ️ For more information, contact:
📞 01623 397750
📧 info@challangect.co.uk

📝 Note: Timings are approximate, and the location varies. Please call to confirm for each session.

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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

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A Tasty Wednesday: Cooking Up Cottage Pie & Lemon Sponge

Two people preparing potatoes at a table.
Two individuals cooking together.
Two individuals cooking together.

We recently had a fantastic cooking session at the hub as everyone came together to cook up a hearty meal of cottage pie, followed by a delicious lemon sponge with custard. The atmosphere was filled with laughter, teamwork, and the comforting aroma of home-cooked food.

A person wearing glasses chopping red onions on a white chopping board, focused on their task.
A person wearing glasses chopping red onions on a white chopping board, focused on their task.

Everyone was thrilled with how their dishes turned out, and there was a great sense of achievement as they sat down to enjoy the meal together. Cooking isn’t just about following a recipe; it’s about building confidence, learning new skills, and creating something to be proud of.

Smiling individual peeling a carrot into a bowl while standing at a table with a chopping board.
Smiling individual peeling a carrot into a bowl while standing at a table with a chopping board.

To make it even better, everyone now has their own recipe folders, allowing them to recreate these dishes at home. Cooking is a great way to develop independence and bring people together, and we can’t wait to see what’s on the menu next!

A man wearing a beanie carefully chopping a red onion on a decorative wooden chopping board.
A man wearing a beanie carefully chopping a red onion on a decorative wooden chopping board.

If you’d like to join our Wednesday cooking sessions, please call 01623 397750 or email info@challengect.co.uk.

Close-up of minced meat and vegetables being stirred in a frying pan with a wooden spoon.
Close-up of minced meat and vegetables being stirred in a frying pan with a wooden spoon.
A glass dish filled with cottage pie, featuring a layer of mashed potatoes topped with grated cheese.
A glass dish filled with cottage pie, featuring a layer of mashed potatoes topped with grated cheese.
Close-up of a dessert plate featuring a slice of lemon sponge cake generously topped with custard.
Close-up of a dessert plate featuring a slice of lemon sponge cake generously topped with custard.
Two people preparing potatoes at a table.
Two people preparing potatoes at a table.
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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.
A woman standing on a bridge overlooking a calm river, smiling at the camera with trees and an industrial building visible in the distance.
A woman standing on a bridge overlooking a calm river, smiling at the camera with trees and an industrial building visible in the distance.
A close-up of a plate with a toasted sandwich, accompanied by fresh salad and coleslaw, served on a tray in a café setting.
A close-up of a plate with a toasted sandwich, accompanied by fresh salad and coleslaw, served on a tray in a café setting.
A woman in a black jacket with a camera around her neck, standing near a tree.
A woman in a black jacket with a camera around her neck, standing near a tree.
A man and woman sitting on a bench in a natural setting, both smiling at the camera. The man is holding binoculars, and the woman has a camera around her neck.
A man and woman sitting on a bench in a natural setting, both smiling at the camera. The man is holding binoculars, and the woman has a camera around her neck.

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!

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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…

A person standing behind a wooden post, holding a camera, with Carsington Water and sailboats visible in the distance.
A person standing behind a wooden post, holding a camera, with Carsington Water and sailboats visible in the distance.
A moss-covered wooden post with a green sign marking "11 km," situated on a grassy path.
A moss-covered wooden post with a green sign marking “11 km,” situated on a grassy path.
Several sailboats moored along the edge of Carsington Water, surrounded by rocky terrain and grassy fields, with the horizon framed by hills and clouds.
Several sailboats moored along the edge of Carsington Water, surrounded by rocky terrain and grassy fields, with the horizon framed by hills and clouds.
A wooden signpost showing directions to the Millfields car park, Visitor Centre, Dam Trail, and Sailing Club, with trees and a pathway in the background.
A wooden signpost showing directions to the Millfields car park, Visitor Centre, Dam Trail, and Sailing Club, with trees and a pathway in the background.
A person wearing a cream-coloured jacket standing on a grassy field with a pathway, wooden bench, and trees in the background, under a bright sky.
A person wearing a cream-coloured jacket standing on a grassy field with a pathway, wooden bench, and trees in the background, under a bright sky.
The draw-off tower situated in the reservoir with cloudy skies and surrounding hills, captured from the grassy edge
The draw-off tower situated in the reservoir with cloudy skies and surrounding hills, captured from the grassy edge
Two dark-coloured birds (likely coots) swimming peacefully on the calm surface of Carsington Water, with soft ripples around them.
Two dark-coloured birds (likely coots) swimming peacefully on the calm surface of Carsington Water, with soft ripples around them.
Three people standing on a pathway near the water with a clear blue sky. One is wearing a cream coat, another in a green fleece with a hat, and the third in a dark jacket and beanie, all smiling on a sunny day.
Three people standing on a pathway near the water with a clear blue sky. One is wearing a cream coat, another in a green fleece with a hat, and the third in a dark jacket and beanie, all smiling on a sunny day.

Other pictures taken by Cayton…

A view of leafless trees with the bright winter sun peeking through the branches and a clear blue sky in the background.
A view of leafless trees with the bright winter sun peeking through the branches and a clear blue sky in the background.
A woman wearing a cream coat and glasses, smiling warmly, standing on a paved path with trees and a grassy field behind her.
A woman wearing a cream coat and glasses, smiling warmly, standing on a paved path with trees and a grassy field behind her.
A man in a green fleece and purple hat with his arm around a smiling woman in a black coat, standing on a pathway with trees in the background.
A man in a green fleece and purple hat with his arm around a smiling woman in a black coat, standing on a pathway with trees in the background.
A man in a green fleece and purple hat walking along a muddy forest path with bare trees on either side.
A man in a green fleece and purple hat walking along a muddy forest path with bare trees on either side.
Two men, one in a green fleece and one in a brown coat, walking on a gravel pathway with a grassy field and boats visible in the distance.
Two men, one in a green fleece and one in a brown coat, walking on a gravel pathway with a grassy field and boats visible in the distance.
A man in a brown coat and blue hat giving a double thumbs up, standing in front of a pay station and trees with the reservoir in the background.
A man in a brown coat and blue hat giving a double thumbs up, standing in front of a pay station and trees with the reservoir in the background.
A group of four people in winter coats, smiling and standing close together on a hilltop with a countryside view behind them.
A group of four people in winter coats, smiling and standing close together on a hilltop with a countryside view behind them.
A man in a black coat and hat standing on a grassy field near the edge of the reservoir with hills and a blue sky in the distance.
A man in a black coat and hat standing on a grassy field near the edge of the reservoir with hills and a blue sky in the distance.
Two women, one in a cream coat and glasses, the other in a black coat, standing close together with the reservoir and hills in the background.
Two women, one in a cream coat and glasses, the other in a black coat, standing close together with the reservoir and hills in the background.
A tranquil view of Carsington Water with still water, grassy hills, and a partly cloudy sky.
A tranquil view of Carsington Water with still water, grassy hills, and a partly cloudy sky.