What we do
A hub for connection, wellbeing and community in North Devon
The Woodyard is a unique community initiative rooted in the heart of North Devon. Founded by a collective of charitable organisations and dedicated local stakeholders, The Woodyard was born from a shared vision: to create a welcoming space and deliver projects to bring people together, support mental wellbeing, and strengthen community ties.
Taking inspiration from the novels of Ann Cleeves—where community, place, and people are at the heart of every story—The Woodyard offers a real-world reflection of those values. It’s a place where stories are shared, lives are enriched, and meaningful connections are made.
Approximately 10% of adults in North Devon report feeling lonely "often" or "always", higher than the England national average of 7%. Evidence shows that higher levels of loneliness can have significant adverse impacts on both mental and physical health, and overall wellbeing, on people of all ages. (2021 data)
North Devon has been identified as one of the highest-rated areas for loneliness according to recent surveys. So our key aim is to reduce loneliness primarily by creating a community space (and moving forward, spaces) where people can come so they don’t feel isolated.
Our focus throughout is on collaboration, and we hope to be able to support the ongoing work of community groups and organisations within the not-for-profit sector who aim to reduce loneliness and increase wellbeing through their work.
New initiatives
From Summer 2025, we will start to deliver two new initiatives to help tackle social isolation head-on. These will be run in collaboration with the Castle Chambers Café, (26 Castle Street, Barnstaple), Space to Be Wellbeing CIC and the Castle Centre.
Our community partners
