Why Barnstaple needs The Woodyard
The need is great
Barnstaple ranks as one of the most deprived communities in Devon
In terms of natural beauty, the area comprising North Devon and Torridge is a wonderful place to live – that’s why it is one of the most popular tourist hot spots in the UK. Underneath, however, lies a different story. The beaches, Exmoor and woodland may be stunning, but our local community faces unique social and economic challenges.
Against the scenic backdrop, this is an area where many families experience greater disadvantages and health inequalities than the national average. More recently, the booming post-pandemic tourist trade, and exodus from city to countryside has resulted in a local housing crisis. The cost-of-living crisis combined with an affordable housing shortage has also cut deep into the community.
North Devon is also a popular retirement destination, with one third more older people than the national average.
Barnstaple, as the largest town in North Devon, provides a hub of services and amenities. Sadly, however, it also now ranks as one of the most deprived communities in Devon, ranking in the top 10% of the IMD (Index of Multiple Deprivation) and in the top 5% for health deprivation.
In addition, approximately 10% of adults in North Devon report feeling lonely “often” or “always”, higher than the England national average of 7%.
Despite these challenges, however, North Devon has so much to offer. There is a wealth of creativity and talent to tap into and a strong sense of community.
Charities need to connect
The many small charities supporting the communities of North Devon and Torridge need a space to meet. Much of the work is currently carried out in people’s homes, local cafes and tired offices – or remotely, if venues cannot be found. It means that our charities often work in isolation and opportunities for people to connect and collaborate can be missed. The opportunity for less formal ‘drop-in’ support for the community in a central location is also limited.
By developing a centrally located ‘safe space’ in the heart of Barnstaple, the long-term aim of The Woodyard would be to provide a much-needed focal point for charities and community groups to share resources and knowledge, to run events, workshops and deliver training.
Charities will be able to introduce their clients to other services more easily, with individuals able to find a variety of support services in a one-stop environment.
Who will benefit?
The Woodyard project will support those who are educationally and/or economically disadvantaged; elderly; those with mental health and/or wellbeing problems; those with learning disabilities; long term health conditions; troubled families; social isolation; bereavement; young people not attending mainstream education; survivors of abuse; people who are neurodivergent; LGBTQ+; and those from minority communities (migrants, refugees, asylum seekers).
Above all, The Woodyard project will work to deliver programmes in a warm and welcoming space to bring together individuals, families, charities and support services. In the words of Ann Cleeves, “A place where people come together and don’t feel lonely”.
Location
The venue for The Woodyard Project is the Castle Chambers Cafe and the hall of The Castle Centre (25 Castle Street, Barnstaple EX31 1DR). This is a short, level walk from the town centre, car parks and bus station. The building already has a history of use by charities and community groups.
Centrally located, yet discreet, the Castle Centre is also a quirky building and lays claim to be the first in Barnstaple to boast an indoor toilet!
Ann Cleeves
“The original idea for the fictional Woodyard came from my lifelong friend Sue (Beardshall). Sue was a social worker supporting adults with a learning disability in Barnstaple and recognised the need for a community space where everyone could meet, connect and feel safe.
I am so delighted to now support The Woodyard team and the local community in their mission to turn fiction into reality!”
