Community Case Study

James had been suffering from poor mental health for some time. He wasn’t really going out, except to buy food, but his GP was very supportive, and believes in social prescribing so encouraged him to get out and about. He was also given some counselling, and had weekly visits from a social worker to check his mental and physical wellbeing.

One day, he visited the Islington MIND Day Centre, and spotted the poster for the Men’s Grub Club. He signed up immediately, and although he felt anxious on his first day, it felt welcoming, warm and friendly. Here’s how he describes it:

“The Grub Club is a group of older men coming together each month to put on a pinny and cook. It breaks down barriers and gives us men the chance to learn to cook, or cook better. It's great for our mental health, giving us something to look forward to, and our physical health too. We’re socializing, making new friends, working together and having a laugh; everyone enjoys their time together. It's also helping me to get out into the wider community, connecting with others, and sharing ideas. I now come to the Pantry every Thursday, and to Cook for Good community meals too. I talk about my time at Grub Club with my social worker, and she has noticed how much it is helping my mental health. I keep a poster of the Grub Club up in my kitchen, and it always puts a smile on my face.”

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