Who are you?
Hello, I’m Jane Williams – Director of The Turning Tides Project.
I’m an Occupational Therapist and a musician. I am passionate about two things:
Music and the belief that “disability” does not belong to individuals but is caused by the way society treats “difference”.
Music plays a part in every society – it is an essential part of what makes us human.
As Roald Dahl’s Big Friendly Giant says “music is like a langwitch... it is the sound that dreams are making”.
Many disabled people have little or no access to music. This lack of access prevents them from participating in their society, it denies them their right to follow their dreams; it disables.
Why did you set up The Turning Tides project?
I worked as a free-lance music facilitator for people labelled as having “learning disabilities”, “autism spectrum diagnoses” and “challenging behaviour” for 7 years. During this time I ran community music projects and weekly music groups, taught instrument, song-writing and performance skills, formed bands that recorded their own original songs, wrote film sound tracks and performed live gigs, and wrote and delivered ‘Why Music?’ Workshops for Social Care providers and wrote a book called Music and The Social Model.
**Want to learn more about the Social Model**
I learnt three things:
The Turning Tides Project draws together a group of people with:
I call these people ‘The Happening-makers’
What is your job at The Turning Tides Project?
What principles do you live by?
(If you’d like to know more about Jane and how she works she’s published a book or contact us)
Hello, I’m Jane Williams – Director of The Turning Tides Project.
I’m an Occupational Therapist and a musician. I am passionate about two things:
Music and the belief that “disability” does not belong to individuals but is caused by the way society treats “difference”.
Music plays a part in every society – it is an essential part of what makes us human.
As Roald Dahl’s Big Friendly Giant says “music is like a langwitch... it is the sound that dreams are making”.
Many disabled people have little or no access to music. This lack of access prevents them from participating in their society, it denies them their right to follow their dreams; it disables.
Why did you set up The Turning Tides project?
I worked as a free-lance music facilitator for people labelled as having “learning disabilities”, “autism spectrum diagnoses” and “challenging behaviour” for 7 years. During this time I ran community music projects and weekly music groups, taught instrument, song-writing and performance skills, formed bands that recorded their own original songs, wrote film sound tracks and performed live gigs, and wrote and delivered ‘Why Music?’ Workshops for Social Care providers and wrote a book called Music and The Social Model.
**Want to learn more about the Social Model**
I learnt three things:
- Enabling disabled people to access music makes a big difference to their lives, their aspirations and their place in their community
- The most powerful way of making a difference is through the thing you’re passionate about
- The more people who use their passion to make a difference in the world, the bigger the difference will be
The Turning Tides Project draws together a group of people with:
- Different passions (dance, poetry and literature, art, music, cookery, literacy, going out)
- A shared belief that enabling access to these passions removes “disability”
I call these people ‘The Happening-makers’
What is your job at The Turning Tides Project?
- Company Director – I find Happening-makers, work with them to develop ideas , identify funding and do all the things that make a company sustainable.
- Musical Director - I lead the Big Band, teach instruments and direct our performances
- Mentor - I mentor Musicians, facilitators and Social Entrepreneurs ; designing projects and securing funding for them
- Music Facilitator – I run sensory music sessions and fun music sessions , teach instrument skills, co-write songs, set up and rehearse bands, arrange gigs and tours, contribute to the development of cross – arts and collaborative performances
- Support Worker – I support facilitators who run other sessions
- Learning and Training Manager; I co-design and co-deliver workshops and conferences for people who work in social care and the arts
What principles do you live by?
- "Be the change that you wish to see in the world" (Gandhi)
- If we all used the things we really care about to make a difference, the difference we would make collectively will be enormous
- Everyone who dreams has music
(If you’d like to know more about Jane and how she works she’s published a book or contact us)
Our Non-Executive Directors are at the bottom of the page! This page is in order of who you're most likely to see in the community
Introducing The Happening Makers:
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Who are you?
Hi, I'm Dom Palfreman. Previously I was an Employment Coordinator for a Charity that worked with people labelled as having learning disabilities, and at night and weekends I worked for TTTP. I started working for TTTP full-time in November 2016, drawing on my experience in Charity Sales, Recruitment, Training and Technical Support. I have long been interested in development and true equality – not just in the sense of skills and opportunities but also on a global and sustainable level to enable people to have the quality of life that they choose to have. How did you become part of The Turning Tides Project? This project gives me the opportunity to actually 'do' and make a difference – locally at first but on a larger scale with time and effort. After all, the amount you get out of something is exactly proportional to the amount of effort you put in. Having been brought up surrounded by music and had the opportunity to go to gigs and festivals from a young age, music is a large part of my life. I have been lucky enough to play a number of instruments during my childhood and teenage years, and still do today – I am by no means a great musician but I enjoy it and I am still learning. Music makes me feel - I hope that makes sense. What is your job at The Turning Tides Project? As a Projects Manager I have a lot of different roles; I build and maintain the website, our Social Media accounts, The Crediton Station Tea Rooms, do a lot of our media editing and promotion, help with managing events and creating a company style, promote TTTP and work with people to develop in their roles and my own. I am also a Session Leader and Facilitator, and Support Worker in Arts Sessions and at Events. In short, I am kept busy! What principles do you live by? 'Whatever you do, do it well.' Not a massive fan of the man that this is quoting but he's certainly on to something! 'Do. Or do not. There is no try.' Pretty big fan of this chap - he's on to something too! |
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Who are you?
Hello, I'm Abi Innocent! I studied contemporary performance at Bournemouth and Winchester University and I have a huge love for the arts. Music is hugely important to me, I love to sing and go to gigs. I am happiest when I am at a festival dancing in the sunshine. I am learning how to play saxophone as part of our big band which is a challenge but one I enjoy. I am also pretty nifty with a crochet hook and like to sew and paint. Why are you part of the Turning Tides Project? I met Jane and Dominic when they came to Dawlish Community College where I was working as a Teaching Assistant. Within 30 minutes of meeting them I was dressed as a belly dancing princess teaching everybody the dance routine to S Club 7 - Reach For The Stars. I thought that the work The Turning Tides Project did was incredible, fun and had an impact on everybody that took part and I wanted to be part of it! I am part of The Turning Tides Project because I believe that everyone should have equal access to life and everything surrounding it. We are all on this planet together so living inclusively just makes sense! What is your job at the Turning Tides Project? I am one of the Project Managers at TTTP and I manage Another Root, The Tea Rooms, Our shop, our theatre access research and Page Turners. I also lead sessions and am a Happening Maker. So there is never a dull moment and I am constantly learning which for me is fantastic. What principles do you live by? -Sing and dance as much as you can -Look after the planet, we only have 1 -Try new things, you will either like it or you wont -Don’t be a jerk and the rest should fall into place! |
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Who are you?
Hello! My name is Roger. I am a lover of music, the arts, sports and equality. Outside of work, I have always been playing the guitar (and dabbling with other instruments, when available!) and football, when possible. There is something extraordinary about the connections that music, the arts and sports allow you to have, both with others and with yourself. I hope to be able to help develop this feeling of connection with those that I work with through TTTP. I have spent the past few years teaching English and Literature in Devon and abroad, which has been a great experience, and am excited to be embarking on a new adventure. Why are part of The Turning Tides? As soon as I became aware of the Turning Tides Project and what they were doing, I knew that I wanted to be involved: the activities that they run matched my interests perfectly; their outlook on inclusivity made so much sense; the work that they are doing in the community and beyond is powerful. For me, to be a part of making such a positive impact on people’s lives is a wonderful thing. What do you do? I am Happening Maker. I support a lot of the sessions during the week ranging from: music / music tech on a Tuesday and Friday; our gardening service (Another Root); our craft sessions; the podcast; our Monday football sessions and our book club (Page Turners). I also support some people on a one to one basis to access other activities such as volunteering and sports. What are the principles you live by? I try to live by the principle that life is better when we are connected and try to understand each other. Too often there are divisions in society which leave us feeling isolated or angry and I think that these divisions could too often be solved by taking the time to listen, engage and empathise with each other. Everybody should have the right to happiness and we need to tackle prejudices across the board to help create the equal society I’m sure we would all like to see. A quote that has always resonated with me is: “Hatred does not cease by hatred, but only by love. This is the eternal rule” - Siddhartha Gautama |
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Who are you?
My name is Alix . I am a support worker at The Turning Tides Project. When I was 18, I went to South Africa for a year to explore conservation and the impact it has on the community, teaching in schools and learning more about the wildlife there. I studied Photography at Falmouth University before working as a senior Support. I then lived in France for almost a year, working as a chef on a superyacht for 6 months before returning to England and meeting everyone at The Turning Tides Project. I am a happy sunny person who enjoys getting outside and seeing the world. I like cooking all kinds of food and love to experiment with food. I love arts ‘n’ crafts and have just been introduced to needle felting, its extremely therapeutic. Why are you part of The Turning Tides Project? After a happy coincidence of meeting Dominic, I then met Jane who asked me if I could temporarily be part of the gang. I enjoyed myself so much that I asked to be part of the gang permanently! I am part of the project because I believe, in an #Inclusive environment, anyone can do anything. I believe everyone should have access to Art, Music, Dance and everything that comes with life. I am passionate about people being happy, having fun and being able to support others to reach their full potential. What do you do? I am a support Worker for The Turning Tides. I currently manage The kitchen in Okehampton and help produce our Jenuine Jams and chutneys. I am also leading the launch of The Turning Tides catering and hospitality service. We believe healthy is happy; all of our produce is low sugar, gluten free and (more importantly) tasty. I support people to do what they want to do, be it rock climbing or horse-riding. I am currently taking part in a swimming Teaching assistance course which is very exciting! I run our #inclusive sports session on a Tuesday afternoon with Michelle and Stuart. I am part of the big band and attempt to play the trumpet! What are the principles you live by? I believe that whatever you project onto the world, it’ll come back to you. Being happy, kind, patient and understanding are important to me. Everyone has a voice, some are just quieter than others. |
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Who are you?
My name’s Sam. I’m Mum to three very different amazing young people. All of who are involved with The Turning Tides Project. I’ve had several different lines of work: From working in the Kitchen and Bar of a very busy old mining pub up in Derbyshire, Cleaning, Kitchen Assistant in a primary school outside of Tiverton, a butcher for a small local pork producer for several years helping to achieve over 40 awards for champion sausages, burgers, bacon and joints throughout the Southwest - something we were very proud of! To now, becoming part of The Turning Tides team. I also have a small holding in the middle of nowhere, on which we have Chickens, Ornamental Pheasants, Ornamental Pigeons, Rabbits, Ferrets, Dogs, a Cat and a beautiful Irish Cob. My little family have been brought up being outdoorsy people, we enjoy so many activities as a family from building all our own chicken houses and rabbit hutches to hacking out in the most beautiful woods on our horse and a friend’s horses, swimming, water polo, street dance, going for long walks, beating and shooting. We also enjoy all genres of music and singing. I love to bake and do lots of home cooking, I have always encouraged my family to be hands on and get creative in the kitchen too. I love being able to be creative and have helped bake and create some amazing wedding/birthday cakes. I love to draw but never have the time since being a mum but I do enjoy seeing how artistic my family are. I’m a very proud mum! Why are you part of The Turning Tides Project? I met Jane and Dominic at Dartington, my eldest was one of the team of young curators for The Ordinary Arts Festival that was put together by another organisation. Jane thought she recognised my youngest, who is actually the spitting image of her sibling. Turned out Jane had been my middle ones guitar teacher 8 years ago at primary, I had only ever spoken via telephone so hadn’t actually met Jane. We were invited to join the Friday music session and had an absolute blast! We helped record “Good Year (2017)” and met everyone. We then joined in with the other festivals and began coming along to other sessions. I was offered to come and work alongside the team. It was such an easy decision, I love everything about Turning Tides and how we seek to demonstrate The Social Model Approach. I am incredibly passionate about my children and ensuring that they have the absolute best in life. In an #Inclusive world, everything is possible. What is your role with TTTP? I am a Session Leader within TTTP, I also have an active role with managing the Timetables, Tearooms and admin work within other areas of the company. You'll see me in the Tearooms either serving, cooking or being part of the session. I'm also out in customers gardens or up at Four Mills Lane(Our flower garden) as part of our "Another Root" project. Being part of the Band and joining everyone at our performances. Getting out and about supporting 1:1 creating equal, inclusive opportunities as much possible. I really enjoy seeing everyone grow and getting to be part of this journey is inspiring! See the change.... Be the change ....Make the change - Thank you! What are the principles you live by? Treat others how you would like to be treated. Live life to the full! Don’t let anything hold you back! Life’s too short for regrets, do everything you want to do and be happy and grateful for everything! What is meant to be will be! |
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Who are you?
I’m Rachel! I’m a mum to 3 gorgeous young people and have lived and worked in Devon as a music facilitator and educator for 15 years now! Previously, I worked as an animation and digital effects producer in London. I feel lucky to have had two wonderful careers that have supported my personal growth during different phases of my life so far. Why are you part of the Turning Tides Project? After meeting Jane during a project we were co-facilitating for DAISI, I immediately felt like I’d met a kindred spirit and found a new musical home with Turning Tides. It has become a place where I am supported in developing my music, my practice, and my understanding of the Social Model. I get to play and work with some fabulously cool and gorgeous people. What is your job at TTTP? I work as a Music Facilitator with special interest in devising projects, seeking funding and developing learning. What are the principles you live by? Laugh lots! Sing, even when you don’t feel like singing! Carve your own path, support others to walk their own. Sow seeds, and watch them grow. |
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Who are you?
My name is Stuart, I love football with Ben and playing in the band! What do you do with The Turning Tides Project? I am a Volunteer Assistant Coach. I did my level 1 coaching qualification, and passed it, as part of our #Inclusive Sports Qualifications. I play the Sax in the Big Band, and help out as a Stage Planner. Skittles is awesome, and we have got to win! I am one of the Team Captains - I collect the fees, and give pep talks... In fact, I have a pep talk sound board for when it's really needed! |
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Who are you?
Hello. My name is Tom. I play guitar and bass and I'm interested in music technology. I have worked as a sound engineer in the local area, both paid and voluntary. I have also worked as a sound assistant/boom operator on a couple of BBC dramas. I recently completed a CME course called 'The Inclusive Practitioner'. In my spare time, I enjoy going to open mics and jam sessions to both observe and participate. Why are you a part of TTTP? I spent many years working in jobs that left me feeling like I had no purpose; I had been looking for something rewarding and challenging. I think with TTTP is something that I have found that fills that gap. It also allows me to make music, which is something I am passionate about, and allows me to share that passion with others. What is your role at TTTP? I am a support worker and session leader. In our music sessions, I am heavily involved with the music technology side of things. This includes recording our songs and ideas and working with live sound reinforcement. What are the principles you live by? I try to live by something my mother told me: "Do what makes you happy" |
Who are you?
Hi I'm Abbie and I am an employee of The Turning Tides Project. I started being on the payroll in December 2019. I started off as a participant in the sessions and then became a volunteer, which lead to me becoming a paid member. I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for my friends and family. I love dogs mainly, but overall I am an animal lover. I have a passion for makeup and hair dye.
Why are you a member of TTTP?
I met the guys at the turning tides project when my grandma found them and thought they would be beneficial to me, because I was going through a hard time at school. Since meeting everyone I've lived a happier life. When I started to get bigger responsibilities such as being a volunteer I was over the moon, as I knew I could make a great change to peoples lives; just as had happened to me. When I got offered a paid position, how could i say no? If people were to ask me when I was 16 what I would have been doing in 2 years time, my reply would probably have been a shrug of the shoulders, and the words "probably nothing". So I am overjoyed that I got given the amazing opportunity to be a member.
What is your role at TTTP?
I do a little bit of everything, some days I work in the tearooms and others I do work with the root project. I am also a member of the turning tide ‘big band’ as I do a lot of singing and songwriting. I also sometimes help out with the training workshops we hold.
What principles do you live by?
Your life is yours, don't let anybody decide that you are not good enough to do things, because you are a person; amazing, beautiful and talented.
Hi I'm Abbie and I am an employee of The Turning Tides Project. I started being on the payroll in December 2019. I started off as a participant in the sessions and then became a volunteer, which lead to me becoming a paid member. I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for my friends and family. I love dogs mainly, but overall I am an animal lover. I have a passion for makeup and hair dye.
Why are you a member of TTTP?
I met the guys at the turning tides project when my grandma found them and thought they would be beneficial to me, because I was going through a hard time at school. Since meeting everyone I've lived a happier life. When I started to get bigger responsibilities such as being a volunteer I was over the moon, as I knew I could make a great change to peoples lives; just as had happened to me. When I got offered a paid position, how could i say no? If people were to ask me when I was 16 what I would have been doing in 2 years time, my reply would probably have been a shrug of the shoulders, and the words "probably nothing". So I am overjoyed that I got given the amazing opportunity to be a member.
What is your role at TTTP?
I do a little bit of everything, some days I work in the tearooms and others I do work with the root project. I am also a member of the turning tide ‘big band’ as I do a lot of singing and songwriting. I also sometimes help out with the training workshops we hold.
What principles do you live by?
Your life is yours, don't let anybody decide that you are not good enough to do things, because you are a person; amazing, beautiful and talented.
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Who are you?
Hello my name is Emma. I love my family, all my pets and really enjoy being outdoors and active. I am really keen at shooting and love going with my mum and my dog, Bracken. I am passionate about make-up (James Charles is my favourite), I love being in the kitchen and baking. Music is really important to me and I express myself through music videos using an app called Tik Tok. What do you do with The Turning Tides Project? I am an active member of the tearooms team, I love baking and really enjoy talking to the costumers. I love being involved with the arts and crafts side for the shop too - I have just started needle felting and I love it. I wrote a song with Jane and my mum about ferrets! What principles do you live by? Too many people let life pass them by - if you are unsure, roll your sleeves up and get on with it. Grab your passions and live your life to the fullest. |
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Who are you?
Luke Skywalker... obviously.
What do you do with TTTP?
I help organise gigs on Mondays. I also help plan and record our Podcast I like going out - especially to watch Star Wars films.
What do you want to do in the future?
More reading, and set up a book club, meet Brian Cox
Luke Skywalker... obviously.
What do you do with TTTP?
I help organise gigs on Mondays. I also help plan and record our Podcast I like going out - especially to watch Star Wars films.
What do you want to do in the future?
More reading, and set up a book club, meet Brian Cox
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Who are you?
My name is Michelle! Why are you part of The Turning Tides Project? I was one of the first people to use TTTP's enabling service. I used to have access to an enabling service but it disappeared - I heard about EPIC through people I know and now I am here. What do you do with The Turning Tides Project? Makaton signing and training, I am a Qualified Volunteer Assistant Swimming Coach. I am also in charge of year round 24/7 Christmas Spirit. What principles do you live by? Always be kind and polite, and say good morning to everybody. |
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Who are you?
Jack! What do you do with The Turning Tides Project? I go to Making Waves every Tuesday, I am part of creating EPIC MW amongst other things - like our Heritage Project. What would you like to do in the future? Make some short stop-motion films. |
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Who are you?
Hi, I'm Rebecca. I have my own bungalow and like looking after my rabbit and watching DVDs. Why are you part of the turning tides project? I like the people at Turning Tides. I love going swimming with Jane and the music sessions are fun. I'm learning to play Saxophone, am part of The Big Band and volunteer during the week at Refurnish in Crediton. What are the principles you live by? The world is a nicer place when people are kind and happy |
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Who are you?
Me! Hi, I'm Alice! What do you do with The Turning Tides Project? I created the animated video for The Big Band's Dartington performance, and work with Tom and Dom on Tuesdays and Thursdays. What principles do you live by? Don't take life too seriously. |
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Who are you?
Hello, name is Jacob. I studied animal management at college which has led to a lifetime love for all creatures and people. I have two very high energy dogs that are my world. I love to travel and I’m always planning my next trip. In my spare time I love to explore the outdoors and play guitar. I find that both of these activities are very grounding. Why are you part of The Turning Tides Project? I had heard of The Turning Tides Project through social media and upon further research I found that I clicked with the companies ethics and work style. It is an opportunity to do good by the community and the people in it. Small steps lead to big journeys. What do you do at TTTP? I am a Support Worker and work two days a week with the Another Root project. This is a varied and rewarding role. What are the principles you live by? There’s always something to be grateful for. Never stop learning. Enjoy the adventure no matter how big or small. |
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Who are you?
I’m Eliot. I’m going to be travelling around NZ Living in a van. I like to know how things work and sometimes taking them apart to find this out, I often have a broken car to mess around with (its easier to take things apart than put them together I find). How did you become part of TTTP? TTTP needed some infrequent support with their website, but not a great deal. I will have time to do some of this while travelling, without the need for TTTP to have someone full-time. I’ve been working as a Social Worker until recently and have worked with TTTP previously a few years back, where I supported and provided some training alongside a group of people, so this lined up quite well. What is your job I will be providing Website Updates and publishing online. Principles to live by.
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Who are you?
I am Jan Dean. I joined The Turning Tides Project after working for DCC for eleven years as a support worker. I am very passionate about getting people labelled with a learning disability out into their community, having a fulfilled life, with as much enjoyment as possible. Why are you part of The Turning Tides Project? After meeting Jane and listening to what she wanted for people, I wanted the same things for everyone too - such as freedom to express themselves through Art, Music and Dance. I am passionate about supporting people to get out there and do it, give it a go. I love helping people to reach their personal goals and make some dreams come true. I like to be happy and I like the people around me to be happy too. What do you do? I work with EPIC and support people to be a part of their community. Although I don’t play an instrument music plays a huge part in my life and I couldn’t live without it. What are the principles you live by? I live by the principles: Be Happy - life is for living. If it feels good, just do it. |
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Who are you?
I am Rachel Purtell. I am a disabled woman and have been all my life. I am a researcher with a few publications about involvement in research, and I’m a disability equality trainer. How did you become part of The Turning Tides Project? Hmm that is quite a long story... Jane and I have worked together over a long time. Then one day we became firm friends over our saxophones! In 2013 in my role with Folk.us at University Exeter Medical School I applied for a small amount of funding from Exeter Catalyst, to bring together the musicians Jane works with and Attik 360 Dancers and Lambeth People First Researchers. What is your job at The Turning Tides Project? I applied for some funding from Folk.us and Joseph Rowntree Foundation in 2013 to assist with the Project. Previously I have helped out with designing accessible information and with publicity. What principles do you live by? Principles are what I aspire to but won’t always achieve. I try to uphold social justice and challenge injustice whenever I can. I try to pick my battles so I am effective and so that things change for the better for everyone. I try use the Social Model in my thinking and actions. Music, the people and cats I love are my reasons for life. |
We have 3 Non-Executive Directors - Lindsey Stewart, Diane Helmore and Wendy Nicholls
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Who are you?
Hi! My name is Wendy Nicholls. I am a Non-Executive Director and I co-ordinate the Turning Tides Support Network. I am married to Malcolm and have three grown up daughters. I have just retired from primary teaching and I’m loving it, especially the lazier mornings! I enjoy time with family and friends, travelling, listening to music, cross stitch embroidery, sewing and tidying up! Why are you part of the Turning Tides Project? My daughter does lots with The Turning Tides Project, including playing in The Big Band, Making Waves and volunteering at Refurnish in Crediton. I am delighted to be able to give something back to this exciting company and to actively promote the principle that disability is created by society. As Robert M Hensel quotes, “There is no greater disability in society than the inability to see a person as more.” I prefer to stay in the background at Turning Tide sessions because no young adult wants their Mum hanging around all the time! What are the principles you live by?
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Who are you?
My name is Lindsey Stewart, I see life as a journey through an ever changing landscape... I believe we can make positive connections and generate sparks! I would love there to be equal opportunities and justice for all! But I am very aware this is not easy but that we must try... Why are you part of TTTP? I see being involved in TTTP as a part of this vision. Music and art, in the widest sense, are important in my life. They have the power to move people and to influence lives. Jane's inspiration has created many 'sparks' through TTTP with many opportunities to create and share. Her book enshrines these principles. It is a privilege to be involved and it's wonderful to see how quickly the project has developed its own personality... which seems to be about supporting and celebrating creativity in life. What are the principles you live by? I try to:
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Who are you?
My name is Diane, most people call me Di. I am a Leadership trainer, I work for Devon County Council HR department part-time. I also enjoy seeing people learn, love and live their lives to the full. I love Horses, sunshine, reading and holidays. My partner, family, pets and friends enrich my life and I love them. I have known Jane (her family and Lindsey's) for 12 years and my beliefs, passion and energies are closely linked to hers and those of the TT project. I have previously worked for Marks and Spencer Plc and Robert Owen Foundation (now ROC). Why are you part of the Turning Tides Project? I truly believe that everyone has something to 'give'. Working with people to achieve their full potential! What is the principle you live by? To enjoy my life and have a positive impact on all those I am fortunate to meet and especially those around me. Live... Love... Laugh... Enjoy. |
We are running Projects alongside North Devon Permaculture CIC's Iain and Wenderlynn
Who are you?
My name is Wenderlynn Bagnall. First and foremost I am a wife, mother and grandmother but my life is also dedicated to the work I do as a permaculture and resilience practitioner and educator and running North Devon Permaculture CIC as co-founder and director.
From an early age I have suffered with mental illness, having severe, chronic anxiety with depression. This has led me to be an advocate for promoting mental wellbeing, talking openly about my experience and becoming a Time To Change Champion. Time To Change is an organisation set up to help stop the stigma of mental illness.
I am also a conscious protector having registered as a trustee of the Stop Ecoside campaign. This is an international campaign to make the destruction of our ecosystems a crime and create a law of Ecocide. In addition to these many exciting heads, I own and manage Wishtree, a 5 acre, off-grid permaculture, Learning and Network Demonstration learner, project (LAND); demonstrating permaculture in action.
What do you do as part of North Devon Permaculture with TTTP?
As a representative of North Devon Permaculture CIC , I am working in collaboration with The Turning Tides Project CIC, to help facilitate the evolution of their Another Root gardening service, using permaculture to help them learn innovative and regenerative gardening practices, such as forest gardening and agroforestry, and social permaculture methods and techniques for designing people based systems.
My day to day work involves working with individuals, organisations and communities to help them develop resilience, whether through growing food, regenerative living or to help build emotional resilience. A big part of this is, introducing people to ways they can feel empowered to help find solutions to the Cmate Emeregeny. One way we do this is to introduce them to 52 climate actions
What Principles do you live by?
Discovering permaculture has been the 2nd biggest change to my life, the first being my children. It aligns with my own ethics for life. Being a natural design science, it works by designing, regenerative, holistic systems, whether on the land or in communities. I see nature as my employer, what I do and how I live is shaped by my impact on this earth. Using the process of permaculture design helps me to stay true to my own ethics. I believe in being non-judgemental and treating each other with compassion and respect. I hope in some way that what I believe will help others to live a happy regenerative and resilient way of life.
My name is Wenderlynn Bagnall. First and foremost I am a wife, mother and grandmother but my life is also dedicated to the work I do as a permaculture and resilience practitioner and educator and running North Devon Permaculture CIC as co-founder and director.
From an early age I have suffered with mental illness, having severe, chronic anxiety with depression. This has led me to be an advocate for promoting mental wellbeing, talking openly about my experience and becoming a Time To Change Champion. Time To Change is an organisation set up to help stop the stigma of mental illness.
I am also a conscious protector having registered as a trustee of the Stop Ecoside campaign. This is an international campaign to make the destruction of our ecosystems a crime and create a law of Ecocide. In addition to these many exciting heads, I own and manage Wishtree, a 5 acre, off-grid permaculture, Learning and Network Demonstration learner, project (LAND); demonstrating permaculture in action.
What do you do as part of North Devon Permaculture with TTTP?
As a representative of North Devon Permaculture CIC , I am working in collaboration with The Turning Tides Project CIC, to help facilitate the evolution of their Another Root gardening service, using permaculture to help them learn innovative and regenerative gardening practices, such as forest gardening and agroforestry, and social permaculture methods and techniques for designing people based systems.
My day to day work involves working with individuals, organisations and communities to help them develop resilience, whether through growing food, regenerative living or to help build emotional resilience. A big part of this is, introducing people to ways they can feel empowered to help find solutions to the Cmate Emeregeny. One way we do this is to introduce them to 52 climate actions
What Principles do you live by?
Discovering permaculture has been the 2nd biggest change to my life, the first being my children. It aligns with my own ethics for life. Being a natural design science, it works by designing, regenerative, holistic systems, whether on the land or in communities. I see nature as my employer, what I do and how I live is shaped by my impact on this earth. Using the process of permaculture design helps me to stay true to my own ethics. I believe in being non-judgemental and treating each other with compassion and respect. I hope in some way that what I believe will help others to live a happy regenerative and resilient way of life.
Who are you?
I am Iain Bagnall. I run North Devon Permaculture CIC together with my wife Wenderlynn.
I grew up being pretty outdoorsy – fishing, birdwatching, walking etc, but somehow I ended up sitting in an office for 15 years, just watching nature through a window.
When Wendy and I realised that our guinea pigs were eating better quality food than we were, we got ourselves an allotment, joined our local Transition Town group, and threw ourselves into living a more ethical lifestyle.
Having become increasingly interested in gardening, sustainability and especially Permaculture, we moved down to Devon in 2015, to Wishtree, our off-grid Permaculture demonstration site.
I have now been studying and practicing Permaculture for more than a decade, and finally feel like I am doing what I “should” be doing – living and working in a beautiful natural environment, and making my living artistically through drawings and creativity.
Why are you part of the project?
The Turning Tides Project approached us as they were looking for someone to help with the design and implementation of gardens outside the Tea Rooms at Crediton train station. Since then, we have continued working with TTTP, primarily on the Four Mills site.
I want to make a difference in the world, effecting positive change in the local community, and working with TTTP fits really well with the mission of North Devon Permaculture: Deliver Permaculture education to individuals, businesses, educational establishments and organisations.
What do you do as part of North Devon Permaculture with TTTP?
I work on the Permaculture/gardening aspects of TTTP. I train people in gardening and Permaculture and thinking holistically, as well as designing and implementing the gardens at the Four Mills site.
What are the principles you live by?
Permaculture has its own set of principles, and is underpinned by three ethics:
I haven’t found a better framework to live by than this, although recently I have also taken on the message of Frank Turner’s song: Be More Kind.
I am Iain Bagnall. I run North Devon Permaculture CIC together with my wife Wenderlynn.
I grew up being pretty outdoorsy – fishing, birdwatching, walking etc, but somehow I ended up sitting in an office for 15 years, just watching nature through a window.
When Wendy and I realised that our guinea pigs were eating better quality food than we were, we got ourselves an allotment, joined our local Transition Town group, and threw ourselves into living a more ethical lifestyle.
Having become increasingly interested in gardening, sustainability and especially Permaculture, we moved down to Devon in 2015, to Wishtree, our off-grid Permaculture demonstration site.
I have now been studying and practicing Permaculture for more than a decade, and finally feel like I am doing what I “should” be doing – living and working in a beautiful natural environment, and making my living artistically through drawings and creativity.
Why are you part of the project?
The Turning Tides Project approached us as they were looking for someone to help with the design and implementation of gardens outside the Tea Rooms at Crediton train station. Since then, we have continued working with TTTP, primarily on the Four Mills site.
I want to make a difference in the world, effecting positive change in the local community, and working with TTTP fits really well with the mission of North Devon Permaculture: Deliver Permaculture education to individuals, businesses, educational establishments and organisations.
What do you do as part of North Devon Permaculture with TTTP?
I work on the Permaculture/gardening aspects of TTTP. I train people in gardening and Permaculture and thinking holistically, as well as designing and implementing the gardens at the Four Mills site.
What are the principles you live by?
Permaculture has its own set of principles, and is underpinned by three ethics:
I haven’t found a better framework to live by than this, although recently I have also taken on the message of Frank Turner’s song: Be More Kind.
Thank you to everyone that has contributed to The Turning Tides Project
