A REGIONAL Community Interest Company is providing an alternative form of therapy through rock-climbing for all ages in Devon and Cornwall with the support of South West Water.

The Chalk Effect Climbing Project specialises in ergotherapy – a physical treatment for mental health conditions. They offer the alternative therapy solution and provision, which targets the three main values of achieving physical, mental, and social wellness, specifically through the form of indoor rock-climbing.

The project’s staff and volunteers alike use their lived experiences to connect with and empower other members whilst facilitating the climbing sessions and reflecting in the journals provided for their time on the course. This works to provide a safe space to develop a deeper understanding of emotions, fears and teamwork whilst breaking down barriers and developing new skills.

With the support of South West Water’s Neighbourhood Fund, The Chalk Effect Climbing Project have supported 12 individuals through a six-week course of Ergotherapy for free.

Jordan Rimmington, owner of The Chalk Effect Climbing Project, said: 'The Chalk Climbing Project are honoured to receive the Neighbourhood Fund from South West Water. This donation keeps the work we do here continuous, supporting people from local communities and providing our service to help others is what we care about the most.

'Poor mental health is becoming an increasing issue in the UK, with the Cost of Living crisis and our economic downfall as a whole, it’s seriously having a detrimental effect on almost everyone we work with. So, keeping the project going with funding is crucial to us.'

Steve Hayfield, Customer Experience and Delivery Director at South West Water, said: 'We’re proud to be working with The Chalk Effect Climbing Project and supporting the fantastic service they provide to improve the mental health and wellbeing of people from within our region’s community.'