A Glasgow charity is expanding its reach to support even more people living with mental health challenges, thanks to a new initiative that’s already making a difference.

Every Friday, the sound of laughter, music, and creativity fills the halls of Common Wheel, a local charity known for its transformative work with people recovering from significant mental health trauma. The newly launched Friday Drop-In sessions offer a lifeline to those seeking connection, purpose, and healing.

For years, Common Wheel has quietly but powerfully supported over 250 individuals annually, all referred by mental health professionals including psychologists, psychiatrists, GPs, and addiction units. Through 12-week programmes in music, art, photography, gardening, climbing, and cycling, the charity has helped participants rediscover joy, build confidence, and reconnect with their communities.

Now, in response to feedback from participants, Common Wheel has gone a step further, introducing a weekly drop-in session that opens the door to even more activities, from yoga and cooking to crafts and monthly excursions.

“Hosting the drop-ins is a very new thing to Common Wheel,” said Wendy Shaw, Art & Activity Coordinator. “It's an exciting time for us with such a varied new programme of workshops including languages, printmaking, sewing, photography, jewellery making, yoga and Tai Chi to name but a few."

“We also have several excursions planned, such as a visit to the Japanese Gardens in Dollar, a variety of museum and art gallery workshops, the Botanic Gardens and National Trust tours. We are really looking forward to the months ahead - this is a very positive time for us.”

The expansion was made possible by a generous £6,900 donation from the Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust, which stepped in to cover the final portion of the £24,760 programme cost after Common Wheel raised nearly £18,000 through its own fundraising efforts.

David Facenna, Corporate Culture Director at Allied Vehicles Group, shared his thoughts in supporting the initiative:

“Common Wheel creates a safe, encouraging space for people to reconnect with themselves and others after experiencing some very difficult circumstances. They truly make a difference to people’s lives, and the Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust is proud to support their work and the positive impact it brings to the community.”

Photos:

• Wendy Shaw beside Common Wheel sign

• Common Wheel community group

• David Facenna, Corporate Culture Director at Allied Vehicles